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MEMORIAL 

OP 

FREDERICK LYMAN TREMAO, 

fate i^icut. (jTol of the lOtU IT. % (Cavalvy. 



WHO WAS 



MORTALLY WOUiNDED AT THE BATTLE OF HATCHER'S RUN, VA., 



FEBRUARY 6th. 



DIED AT CITY POINT HOSPITAL, 



FEBRUARY 8th, 1865. 



BY HIS FATHER. 



ALBANY: 

VAN BENTHUYSEN'S STEAM PRINTING HOUSE. 
1865. 



IorTT 



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By the death of Frederick L. Tremaix, my first born 
child has 1)een removed from my family, in the morning of 
his life, and his name added to the honored roll of patriot 
martyrs who have fallen in the present struggle for national 
existence. 

Having resolved to write an unpretending sketch of his 
life and character, the occasion seems appropriate to 
explain the reasons which have impelled me to perform 
this work of affection and duty. 

When one so brave and patriotic, so good and generous, 
and, I may add, so talented and distinguished as the sul)ject 
of this memoir, gives his young life to his country, the 
promptings of justice and patriotism alone, Avould require 
that some record of hi.^ example and his services should 
be preserved. 

The voluntary testimonials to his virtues, and to the 
estimation in which he ^ as held by his brother officers in 
the army, and by others, who knew him intimately, have 
been so numerous and emphatic, and the expressions of 
public sympathy and sorrow so extraordinary and general, 
as to justify a more enduring memorial than can be 
supplied by written letters, or the newspapers of the day. 



tidm CJM^Um, 




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iC /H 



By the death of Frederick L. Tremain, my first born 
child has been removed from my famil}^, in the morning of 
his life, and his name added to the honored roll of patriot 
martyrs who have fallen in the present struggle for national 
existence. 

Having resolved to write an unpretending sketch of his 
life and character, the occasion seems appropriate to 
explain the reasons which have impelled me to perform 
this work of affection and duty. 

When one so lirave and patriotic, so good and generous, 
and, I may add, so talented and distinguished as the subject 
of this memoir, gives his young life to his country, the 
promptings of justice and patriotism alone, Avould require 
that some record of his example and his services should 
l)e preserved. 

The voluntary testimonials to his virtues, and to the 
estimation in which he ^ as held by his brother officers in 
the army, and by others, who knew him intimately, have 
been so numerous and emphatic, and the expressions of 
public sympathy and sorrow so extraordinary and general, 
as to justify a more enduring memorial than can be 
supplied by written letters, or the newspapers of the da}-. 



MEMOIR. 



Nor, as I l)elieve, can this labor of love devolve on any 
one more litly than on me. No earthly vanity, no vain 
desire to ol)tain earthly fame for my gallant l)oy, exerts 
any influence upon my action. How vain and empty are 
earthly fame and worldly honors to him whose remains 
are deposited in the toml) ! How hollow and unsatisfactory 
are these to one crushed and prostrate under a blow so 
severe and l)ewildering as that I have received ! 

Were it not for other duties and obligations, often would 
I have Ijeen disposed to use the mourning lamentation of 
David for his dead son. 

" O my son Absalom ! my son, my son Absalom ! would 
God I had died for thee, O Absalom, my son, my son." 

But Absalom lost his life while he was eno;ao;ed in a 
treasonable conspiracy against the government and author- 
ity of his Ivoyal Father, while my son offered his, in 
obedience to the call of his country, and in the performance 
of (iie highest duty that could rest upon him as a dutiful, 
loyal, o1)edient and faithful son and citizen. 

AMiile so nuich of my happiness, my hopes, and my 
heart lie buried with my brave boy, it may afford me some 
solace — it is the very least trilnite I can offer to his 
memoiy — to perform the melancholy office of doing justice 
to his career. This little narrative is intended, mainly, for 
Ihose who were interested in the deceased. 

It may serve to remind my descendants of the household 
monument which can be seen in my family so long as that 
family shall exist. 

It may serve to teach them the wickedness and sin of 
treason against a beneffcent government 1 It may tend to 
strengthen their love for a country, the preservation of 
Avhich has demanded so costly a sacriffce ! It may stimulate 
them to take a higher view of their duty to their country 



MEMOIR. 



and their God ! The l)ri2;ht example of this young patriot 
may nerve their arm, and strengthen their heart, to offer 
any and all necessary saci'itices, even the sacritice of life 
itself, higher than which can no man give, for the preser- 
vation of our country, our Union, and our free institutions ! 

Frederick Lymax Tee:maix was the eldest child of 
Lyman and Helen Cornwall Tremain, and was born at 
Durham, Greene county, X. Y., on the 13th of June, 1843. 
He died at City Point Hospital, Virginia, on the 8th of 
February, 18(35, from a gunshot wound received in battle, 
near Hatcher's Run, on the ()th of Feln'uary, being 21 j'ears, 
7 months and 24 days old, at the time of his death. 

Of his ancestry, all that I propose to state in this con- 
nection is, that he descended, both on his father's and 
mother's side, from revolutionary stock. His paternal 
o-reat-ofrandfather, Xathaniel Tremain, was a soldier of the 
Revolutionary War, who died, highly esteemed and res- 
pected, at Pittsheld, Berkshire county, Mass. His maternal 
great-grandfather. Captain Dan. Cornwall, was also a soldier 
of the Revolution, and a worthy citizen, who died at 
Cornwallsville, Greene county, X. Y. 

In his boyish career, there is little to record, which is 
worthy of special notice. While he was by no means 
precocious, he was a remarkably In'ight, intelligent and 
active l)oy. His nature Avas so genial and generous tliat he 
was ahvays a faA'orite, not only with his youthful conu'ades, 
but MJth all who were l)rought in contact with him. 
■ He had a remarkable facility in the acquisition of 
knoAvledge, and, apparently Avithout effort, mastered Avhat- 
ever lessons Avere re(piired of him, in and out of school. 
In all boyish sports and athletic exercises, he Avas an acknoAvl- 
edged leader. He displayed then, and through his subse- 
quent life, an imusual degree of mechanical ingenuity. 



MEMOIR. 



There was one trait in his character which was developed 
at a very early period, and which became, afterwards, 
prominent and extraordinary. This was his wouderfnl 
courage, coolness and self-reliance. Many instances to 
illustrate this characteristic mioht be related, commencins: 
as early as when he was three years old, but I refrain from 
giving them a place here, fearful that their publication 
might be ascribed to an overweening parental fondness. 
Quick in forming his conclusions, prompt in action, fertile 
in resources, obstacles and ditficulties served only to 
stimulate him in the execution of his purposes, and rare, 
very rare, was the instance, so rare, indeed, that no case 
can be now recalled, in which he failed to accomplish, 
successfully, w^hatever he undertook. 

His religious education was carefully attended to, and, 
at an early age, he received the holy rite of baptism, in 
the Protestant Episcopal Church, at Oak Hill, under the 
ministration of the Rev. L. A. BarroAvs. The following; 
extract is from a letter received from this faithful minister 
and good man, written at Norfolk, St. Lawrence county, his 
present residence. " We feel to deeply sympathise with 
you under the dark cloud which this sudden and unexpected 
bereavement has thrown over you. Since such is the 
melancholy fact that a dear child, a brilliant youth, in the 
defence of his country, has been called from your paternal 
embrace, let faith lift the veil, and view in a world of bliss, 
future scenes more glorious than could have been won here 
on battle fields. Frederick is gone. I placed the form 
of the cross upon his forehead, and, as in life, so in death, 
let us believe that he triumphed over the spiritual enemy 
and is now rejoicing in the kingdom of God." Here let 
me add, that, after his death, there was found in his camp 
tent, carefully preserved, a copy of the Holy Bible given 



MEMOIR. 



to him by his dear mother, with a mark placed at chapters 
five and six of Matthew, which contain that snl)lime and 
comprehensive epitome of man's whole duty, Christ's 
sermon on the mount. 

In November, 1853, he removed, with his father's family, 
from Durham to the city of Albany, where he continued 
to reside until his death. Here several years were passed 
in faithful and diligent study, preparatory to his college 
education. The schools he attended, in the city, were the 
Albany Boy's Academ}^ and, afterwards, the Classical 
Institute, in Eagle street, of which Professor Charles H. 
Anthony was Principal. Under the instruction of this 
excellent and faithful teacher he spent between two and 
three years of his life. Between Mr. Anthony and his 
young pupil, relations of friendship were contracted, which 
continued in full force to the end. The photograph of this 
teacher of his boyhood was found, after his death, among 
the valued memorials in his army trunk. Since his death, 
Mr. Anthony has written to the author the following tribute 
to the memory of the lad who was his scholar at the age 
of twelve and thirteen years. 

Albany, Feb. 25, 1865. 
Hon. Lyman Tremain, 

Dear Sir: I heartily thank you for the gift of a photograph of your gallant 
son Frederick, representing him in appropriate military attire, just as he 
appeared previous to the sanguinary conflict in which he poured out his life's 
blood in defence of our sacred Union. This portrait has a special interest 
to me now, because I can place it, side by side, with one presented by his 
own hands while he was yet a pupil under my charge. Frederick entered 
the Classical Institute September 13, 1855. and pursued his studies there 
until April 30, 1858, when he left for the purpose of attending an institution 
more remote from city excitements, and, consequently, more favorable for 
the mental culture which, at that age, he so much needed. A comparison 
of the two portraits naturally suggests the question, ' did he, at the age of 
thirteen, give any promise of the sterling manhood which was so strikingly 
exhibited in his subsequent life? ' He certainly did so, if integrity of purpose, 
ingenuousness in avowing, and firmness in maintaining what he conceived to 



be right, afford any indications of a principle of heroism j'et to be developed. 
In the Divine economy, men are created and endowed with faculties appro- 
priate to the stations they are destined to fill. May we not hope that he who 
was so dear to us, and whose earthly record was so illustrious, has stood in 
the lot assigned him by the All-wise Disposer of events, and that he was 
permitted to finish his portion of the great work in which our Nation is 
engaged, ere the fiat went forth that so suddenly withdrew him from our 
gaze? I mingle my sympathies with the grief of the bereaved parents, and 
commend to them the consolations 'wliich the great Comforter alone can 

afford. 

Very truly yours, 

C. H. ANTHONY. 

In the spring of 1858, Frederick entered the Classical 
school for hoys, under the charge of Mr. James Sedgwick, 
at Great Barrington, Mass. In this l)eantiful New England 
village, he remained pursuing his studies, and attracting 
the affectionate regard of teachers and schoolmates, for one 
year. This excellent and experienced teacher pays the 
following feeling tribute to the merits of his pupil. 

Great Barrington, 3d March, 1865. 
Mr. Tremain, 

My Dear Sir: Your brave boy, the late Lieutenant Colonel Tremain, 
entered my school in the spring of 1858, and remained one year. I am 
grateful for the privilege, though a sad one, to bear testimony to the great 
excellence of character maintained by him while with us. The school 
records, and my distinct recollection, speak of his diligence as a .scholar, of 
his generous impulses and of his unswerving integritj' in all his intercourse 
both as a pupil and companion. If anyone trait of character was particu- 
larly noticeable above others, where all were excellent, it was his unselfish 
disposition and high sense of honor, which inclined him to assume the 
responsibility of an act to save others from censure or harmi 

I have, hanging up in my hall, his miniature, with those of Masters Pruyu 
and Delavan, noble boys all, whose early deaths excited our earnest sympathy 
in behalf of the bereaved. 

Your son has given his life for his country, a martyr in a cause in whose 
triumphant success the well being of the race is identified. "Would that he 
could have been spared to see the fruit of his efforts. But he has gone to 
the bosom of his God, no doubt a better appointment for him, and left as a 
legacy for weeping friends, the memory of a well spent life. May I hope, 
my dear sir, you so regard it, and that to your dying hour, when you shall 



anticipate a speedy reunion with the loved but not lost, you shall take much 
comfort from the reflection, that your own blood, in the person of your son, 
has been shed for the redemption of suffering humanity. 

Very truly yours, 

.IAS. SEDawiCK. 

Ill the spring of 1859, Frederick l)ecame n pupil in the 
celebrated school for 1)o\'s, under the charge of the Reverend 
Thonuis C. Reed, D. D., at Walnut Hill, Geneva. He 
continued in Doctor Reed's school \nitil the summer of 
1860, when several of his school companions were examined 
for admission into Holjart College, Geneva, and Frederick, 
who had formed very strong attachments with them, also 
applied, and passed his examination, and having been 
found qualified, was admitted into the Freshman Class and 
entered that college, at the commencement of the college 
year, in September, 1860. 

It happened that in January, 1865, a few weeks before 
his death, durino; his last visit home, Frederick ao-ain met 
his old friend and former instructor, Doctor R^cd, on an 
occasion of unusual interest. This was at the silver 
wedding of Mr. Pomeroy, a gentleman of wealth and 
prominence, atPittsfield. Doctor Reed had performed the 
marriage ceremony for this gentleman and his wife twenty- 
five years before, and, on the present occasion, he again 
attended their nuptials, when he delivered an address and 
read a poem. Frederick attended the wedding, which 
was equal in splendor and hospitality to anything ever before 
known in this country, and, on his return home, related the 
incidents of his visit with great delight, and, as usual, on 
social and festive occasions, he seemed to have entered into 
the spirit of this one with all the earnestness and ardor of 
his nature. He spoke also, with lively satisfaction, of his 
meeting with his old friend and instructor, Doctor Reed, 
for whom he had always entertained a high regard. 
2 



10 MEMOIR. 



Ill the following extracts from a letter received from 
Doctor Heed, since Feederick's death, he thus toiichingly 
alludes to his old student, and to his meeting him at 
Pittsfield. 

" The death of Frederick, espscially under the circumstances of our 
last and recent meeting, was overwhelming, and I feel as if I had lost my own 
son. I have attempted several times to write to you. I was prevented 
from attending the funeral only by the failure of the train. If it had been my 
privilege to be with you, I wished to make an address in the church. I 
made his death and character the subject of my evening lecture the Sunday 
after, and as there were some boys here who were his cotemporaries, and 
many who used to see his winning face and graceful bearing, there was 
much sympathy and satisfactory feeling manifested. 

There is but this, my dear sir, to be said — " The Lord Omnipotent 
reigneth." It is only in the infinite power, wisdom, and love of God, that we 
can find rational comfort under the pressure of such a calamity as this. I 
l^ray earnestly that He v/ill be with you in the richest consolations of his grace. 

I have lost many of my dearest pupils in this war, but the death of none 
has come home to me as Frederick's has. He had got into the position 
precisely for which he was fitted, and in which he was sure to be successful 
and distinguished. I was very strongly impressed with this on our visit to 
Pittsfield, during which I saw much of him. 

On my return from Pittsfield to Albany, I had in my care a lady, a neice 

of , who was entremely pleased with his appearance and manners. 

Since his death she has written to me expressing deep sorrow and admiration 

Our i)assage in the cars was very pleasant. There were the young 

and other boys from Albany, and they, with Frederick, were having a 
merry time. During the fun, I asked Frederick when he was going to join 
his regiment? "Next Saturday," he replied. " Then," said I. "you will 
need your sword, and I will take care of your cane for you." In a way that 
delighted the young lady who was with me, he said, " Will you have the 
kindness to accept of it, sir?" It is needless for me to say that the cane 
will be a cherished memorial. 

I write hastily to commune with you on a loss which I feel very little less 
than it is felt by yourself and Mrs. Tremain, and Frederick's brother and 
sister." 

The two years, or nearly two years, of his college life 

Avere marked hy no unusual incidents. Many warm 

friendships were formed, and his genial and unselfish 

character, as well as his excellent natural abilities, were 

duly appreciated. 



MEMOIR. 11 



Nor was he backward in performing his full share in the 
mischief-loving scrapes in which,- from time immemorial, 
boys in college have been accustomed to take part. He 
was proud of the secret society of which he became a 
member, and contributed, to the extent of his ability, to 
promote its power and influence. In brief, during the 
three years and upwards that he was pursuing his studies 
in this most beautiful village, surrounded by the delightful 
scenery which nature has lavished there with such bountiful 
profusion, he was constantly acquiring that education which 
enabled him, in after life, to master with facility the duties 
of the responsible and arduous positions which he was 
called to hold. 

By the firing upon Fort Sumter, his patriotism was 
aroused, and he experienced an ardent desire to become 
a volunteer in the army of the Union. About this time, 
the people of Geneva were engaged in organizing an 
engineer corps, under the command of Mr. Charles B. 
Stuart, formerly State Engineer and Surveyor. Frederick 
desired to enlist, and applied to his father for his permission, 
but, there l)eing at that time, no difiiculty in procuring 
volunteers, and his college career having commenced only 
the fall l)efore, the paternal consent was then withheld, 
not finally, Init for the present. 

In Deceml)er, 1861, the annual sophomore exercises in 
public speaking took place, and Frederick was selected as 
one of the thirteen speakers of his class to participate in 
them. In a letter inviting his parents to attend he writes, 
" I think you will not hear any bad speaking, but, on the 
contrary, will hear much good speaking on the occasion." 
The exhil^ition took place at Linden Hall, in the presence 
of a large and intelligent audience, and he acquitted 
himself quite creditaldy. In the Geneva Gazette, his 



12 MEMOIR. 



performance was specially mentioned in complimentary 
and flattering terms. 

Fredeeick had always expressed the highest respect and 
esteem for the Reverend Abner Jackson, President of the 
college, and I take the liberty of making the following 
extract from a letter written by Doctor Jackson to the 
anthor, since his death. 

'' I caiiuot refrain from assuring you and Mrs. Trcmain of mj- sincere and 
deep sympathy in this great and sudden affliction. The news of Frederick's 
decease touched very many hearts in the college here, and in the village, 
where he was so well known. From the moment he entered the army, I 
anticipated for him a brilliant career. He had a manly and noble presence, 
a quick apprehension, sound judgment, promptness of action, and those 
qualities of heart and character which would endear liini to both officers and 
men. I was glad to hear of his merited promotion, and I felt shocked and 
grieved when I heard of his early death Our consolation must be that he 
gave his life for his country, and that he fell lighting in a noble cause. 

God alone can sustain and comfort in such an hour. I pray that he may 
pour the balm of his heavenly consolation into your wounded hearts." 

Dnring the summer of 1862, after the President's call 
for more men appeared, Frederick, who had never for a 
moment relinquished his desire to enter the army, again 
urged his father to yield his consent. The author was thus 
brought face to face with the stern reality of war, and he 
was called upon to determine the question Avhcther the 
application of this loved son should be granted or denied. 
He had, from the commencement of the great conflict, 
labored, to the extent of his ability, to convince his 
countrymen, that it was their duty to sustain the govern- 
ment and overthroAv the rebellion. He had exerted what- 
ever influence he possessed, by public addresses, and in 
various other modes, to induce men to take the field against 
the enemies of the country. The conviction that it was 
the solemn duty of every American citizen to sustain the 
authority and preserve the life of the nation at any and all 
sacrifices, Avas as full and complete as the human mind was 



MEMOIR. 13 



capable of entertaining. This conviction formed a part of 
his very being, and he beb'eved that, in this great crisis of 
the nation's peril, his dnty to his beloved country was 
second only to his duty to his God. 

Adherence to this conviction had already caused the 
sundering of ties and associations cherished through life, 
and thereby produced an amount of mental suffering 
capable of being endured only by the consciousness of 
duty performed. More than one year's terrible experience 
in the sanguinary struggle, had revealed the dangerous 
character of the conspiracy formed to overthrow the Union 
and onr Kepublican institutions, and to strengthen the 
1)elief, that without universal self-denial and united action, 
among the friends of the Kepublic, all would l)e lost, and 
once gone, could never be reirained. 

Should he now refuse to make the sacrifice required, by 
permitting that son to aid in the defence of his imperiled 
country, a sacrifice which he had been asking others to 
make ? Should he withhold from the service of that 
country one who possessed the ability and the desire to 
make himself useful in the contest ? Should he be su])jected 
to the reproach of having urged others to send tlieir sons, 
brothers and relatives to the war, and yet shrink from the 
application of the stern test of sincerity and patriotism in 
the case of his own son ? 

Should he compel that son to feel and, perhaps, to admit 
in future times, that he was withheld from going forth to 
fight against his country's enemies by his own father, and 
that father one who had professed to be in favor of 
prosecuting the war with all the power and resources of 
the nation ? 

After careful deliberation, aided by the best lights 
which his imperfect human reason aft'ordcd, he resolved 



14 MEMOIR. 



that his consent should no longer be withheld, and it was 
granted. 

And now, with the bright hopes and brilliant promises 
that clustered around that gallant youth forever extin- 
guished — now, with soul and spirit crushed by the traitorous 
bullet which took his young life — now, with the proj) on 
which I had fondly hoped to lean, in my declining years, 
shivered to atoms, the question comes home to me : Did I 
right in yielding that consent? and down, down from the 
inmost recesses of my soul, the still small voice of conscience 
wdiispers an affirmative response. 

The consent of his mother followed, and Frederick 
immediately began his arrangements for the new field of 
duty, with great earnestness and energy. He had already 
become a member of company A, of the Zouave Cadets, a 
uniformed company in the 10th Regiment of Militia, and 
had been engaged in acquiring the drill and the necessary 
military science. This company has become highly dis- 
tinguished during the war. It can point, on its muster 
rolls, to many names among the nol)lest, most gifted and 
patriotic of the young men of Albany. It has already 
sent more than ninety of its members to the field, each one 
of whom has earned aud obtained a commission, many of 
high rank, and all of respectable position. 

Having ol)tained from Hobart College, an honoral)lc 
dismissal, his attention was immediately devoted to the new 
regiment of infantr}-, known as the 113th regiment of 
New York A'^olunteers, which was then in the process of 
being organized in the city of Albany. 

For the purpose of organizing this regiment, His Excel- 
lency, Governor Morgan, had designated a war committee, 
embracing some of the most patriotic and influential citizens 
of Alliau}', and the committee held daily sessions at the 



MEMOIR. 15 



Mayor's room in the City Ilall. It Avas resolved to make 
this regiment one of the l)est that had been sent forth from 
the State. The Governor had entrusted to the eonnnittee 
the duty of recommending suitable persons to obtain 
authorization papers, to recruit volunteers with reference 
to having commissions, as lieutenants and captains, issued to 
those who were able to recruit the requisite number of men. 

Frederick promptly applied to the committee, and was 
the first person who received from the Adjutant General, 
on the recommendation of the committee, authority to 
obtain recruits for the new regiment. He erected his tent 
in front of Capitol Park, in State street, issued his posters, 
associated with him young Orr and young McEwen, (the 
former of whom has since lost his life, in the army, and 
the latter is now Judge Advocate of the first division, 
second army corps, having been for some time a jn-isoner 
at Libby Prison, Pichmond,) and proceeded, with vigor 
and energy, to ol^tain a olunteers. Indeed, the real man- 
hood of his character was displa^-ed from the moment he 
felt the responsibilities of his position, and continued to 
manifest itself, more and more clearly, in every subsequent 
stage of his career. 

The late Adjutant General, John T. Sprague, then a 
Major in the United States arm}', was on duty for the 
Government, at Albany, as an auditing and dis])ursing 
officer. The war committee unanimousl}' designated him 
as the Colonel of the new" regiment, and he accepted the 
position. The Government at Washington, hoAvever, soon 
after this, declined to relicAc him from duty in the regular 
army, and, hence, he Avas only enabled to act as Colonel 
for a A^ery few days. During that time, however, discover- 
ing the necessity of an Adjutant for the regiment, and 
being acquainted Avith Frederick, Colonel Sprague kindly 



IG MEMOIR. 



tendered him the position of Adjutant. It was accepted, 
and his selection api)roved hy Governor Morgan. 

In the time that intervened prior to the period when the 
regiment left Albany, which was about thirty days, the 
whole duty of organizing it, and getting it into proper 
working order, devolved upon the new Adjutant. The 
Colonel (Morris) did not arrive nntil a very short time 
before the regiment moved. No other held officer was 
selected until a day or two prior to that time, and the only 
other officer, besides the Adjutant, was Doctor Pomfret, 
Surgeon, whose duties were confined to the surgical and 
medical department. 

To the faithful discharge of these duties, Frederick 
devoted himself, days and nights, dividing his time between 
the headquarters in Broadway, and the barracks. How 
readily he mastered those duties, and how well he performed 
them, may be inferred from the letter of Doctor Pomfret, 
the present Surgeon General of the State of New York, 
published with this memorial, and from the frequent com- 
pliments bestowed upon him by the committee, who Avere 
superintending his movements, and Avho were surprised and 
gratihed l)y the qualities he exliil)ited. If any apprehensions 
had been entertained, by reason of the Adjutant's youth, it is 
believed they were entirely and speedily dispelled. 

LeM'is O. Morris, the Colonel who was selected to 
connnand the new regiment, was a valualde and accom- 
plished officer. Ilis father, Captain Morris, lost his life in 
the Mexican war. Lewis had acquired much distinction, 
by his captui'e of Fort Macon, while in conmiand of the 
artillery. He had been fifteen years in the army, and bore 
an envial)le reputation as an artillery officer. 

A])out the 19th of August, 1862, the 113th regiment, 
Avith 1,000 bayonets, left the city of Albany, under orders 



MEMOIR. 17 



to report iit Washington. It was one of the first regiments 
placed in the lielcl, under the President's cull, and received 
a beautiful stand of colors, as well as the 8pringiield 
muskets, which had been promised to each of the first four 
regiments. A finer regiment, or one carrying with it so 
many good wishes and so much interest, on the part of 
Albanians, never left our city. 

Of that noble body of men how few, alas, now survive ! 
The brave IMorris fell, gallantly fighting at the head of his 
regiment, at Spottsylvania Court House, in the summer of 
1864. Between him and Frederick there soon sprung up, 
and always existed, mutual esteem and regard. When 
Frederick made his last visit home, he and Doctor Pomfret 
were the only survivors of the field officers of that gallant 
regiment, and now Doctor Pomfret alone remains ! Fred- 
erick had, at home, a photograph of Colonel Morris, and 
soon after his return home called for the picture, and on 
seeino; it he evinced imich feeling and addressed it as if it 
were the Colonel himself. 

When the reo-iment reached Washino-ton, the ofiicer in 
charge of its defences, knowino; the skill of Colonel Morris 
as an artillery officer, procured the assignment of the regi- 
ment to duty upon the defences of the city, where it was, not 
long afterwards, converted into the 7th New York artillery. 

The ensuing fifteen months were passed by Frederick, 
with his regiment, near Fort Keiio, about five miles from 
Washington. He applied himself, diligently, to the ac(]ui- 
sition of the knowledge I'cquired in the artillery service. 
Part of the time, he was engaged in teaching a school of 
officers in military tactics. He devoted himself faithfully 
to the performance of his official duties. Twice I had the 
pleasure of visiting him there, and could not fail to discover 
that he was a universal favorite with the officers and men. 



18 MEMOIR. 



He became thoroiiglily fiimiliar with his new profession. 
About the time of leaving the regiment, he happened one 
day to ])e engaged with a l)rother ofiicer, in discussing 
the subject of being examined as to qualifications before a 
military board in session at Washington, when Frederick 
volunteered to be examined. His duties called him fre- 
quently to Washington, and soon afterwards he presented 
himself before the lioard, and was subjected to a thorough 
examination, the result of which was that he passed the 
examination successfully, and was tendered, in a few days, 
a Lieutenant Colonel's commission in a colored regiment, 
l)ut, meantime, he had received another appointment which 
he preferred. 

At one time he had a severe attack of typhoid fever, 
produced by the miasma of the Potomac, to which he was 
exposed, in the discharge of his official duties, and under 
the advice of his surgeon, he obtained a short leave of 
absence and visited his home, l)ut soon returned to his 
duties with renewed zeal and energy. In Avriting to me 
that he had deemed it l)est for his health to make a short 
visit home, his surgeon says : 

" The Adjutant was quite unwilling to listen to the suggestion, but deem- 
ing it best, I insisted, imperatively, and shall apply for a furlough to-morrow. 

"Regretting the necessity which separates him, even temporarily, from 
tho statf, on his own account, I should do myself injustice, as well as 
injustice to my brother officers, if I omitted to state that we shall wait 
anxiously to hear of his convalesence, and to welcome liini again to the 
regiment." 

On the most elevated ground in the District of Columlna, 
about six miles from the Capitol, stands Fort Reno, formerly 
called Fort Pennsylvania. Within a short distance from 
the fort, and upon a level plain, may yet be seen the little 
village of log cabins, laid out into streets, which was built 
for tlie accommodation of the 7th New York artillery. Upon 



MEMOIR. 19 



one side, near by, stand the hospital and the office for the 
surgeon, as well as the house erected for the use of Doctor 
Pomfret, and occupied by that skilful and nol)le hearted 
surgeon, with his family, during the fifteen months that 
the regiment remained upon the defences of Washington. 
On the other side are a few officers' cabins or huts, and 
one of these, more tasteful than its neighl)ors, with a little 
piazza at each end, was the "Adjutant's quarters," con- 
structed for, and under the superintendence of, the subject 
of this sketch. He thus describes the locality in a letter 
to his sister. 

"You would laugh, I imagine, if you saw my little cottage. It is made 
of logs split in half with the bark outside, and the chinks plastered up with 
mortar. It has two rooms in it, and you could put the whole building 
inside of my old room at home. The men of the regiment have little log 
houses, about one half the size of mine, and four men live in a house. There 
are regular streets running the same way, and the oflScers' houses are at tho 
end of the street, overlooking it. Our chairs are all home-made, but are 
very comfortable. * * * I have a little terrier dog that one of the 
men gave me. He is about the same size that Dash was. I would like to 
send him to Lyman, Jr., if I could, he is so good natured." 

Frederick was a universal favorite amonsj the common 
soldiers. He always treated them with kindness and 
justice. Quick to discover real merit in a private, and 
mingling much Avith the men, his opinions concerning 
promotions had great influence with Colonel Morris, and 
many a deserving soldier has been indebted for his promo- 
tion from the ranks, to the aid and recommendation of the 
Adjutant. 

He began, after more than a year had elapsed, and still 
no orders to move came, to desire more active service. The 
conversion of his regiment into an artillery regiment, thus 
placing it in a higher branch of service, had l)een gratifying 
to him, l)ut he had not anticipated so long a continuance of 
garrison duty, and, having reason to l)clicve that the 



20 MEMOIR. 



regiment might remain doing that duty for a long time, 
and perhaps until the end of the war, his active spirit 
began to chafe under the monotony of his present life. 
Animated by an honorable aml)ition, he could not enjoy a 
life of inglorious ease. 

He wrote several letters to the author, expressing these 
feelings, and desiring his aid in obtaining a position where 
he might have an opportunity to acquire distinction, and 
strike a blow at the enemies of his country. 

In October, 1863, he wrote a letter from which I make the 
following extracts, to show the state of his mind at that time. 

" I am, of course, more or less ambitious. I have enlisted to serve my 
country, and I want, while I am serving her, to make some small modicum 
of fame for myself. The life that I lead here is far from satisfactory to 
myself, although extremely pleasant. 

" I feel myself competent, or rather I feel in myself the ability to make 
myself competent, for almost any military position. I should, at any rate, 
like to be tried in some place where opportunities for distinction can be had. 
Our regiment is in garrison. Barracks have just been finished for them, 
and there is every indication that this is to be a permanent garrison. General 
H. has been relieved, and now our chance even for going to Texas is very 
small. I desire a place where lean see some service, or, at least, where my 
mind can be actively employed. 

" I am almost tempted, if I cannot go up in the service, to resign and come 
home, to apply mj'self to other studies than military, although for an officer 
to resign (unless on account of physical disability) places him in an unenvia- 
ble position. 

" The officers here are a jolly good set of fellows, but most of them are 
quite contented to stay and lead an easy, jovial, convivial life, 

" I would be perfectly satisfied to stay in this regiment, as Adjutant, if 
we were to move, and all were put to the test, but I am honestly dissatisfied 
with the way in which I am spending the best part of my life. 

" I have now told you what has been troubling me for some time, and I 
feel easier for it, for you are tlie only one to whom I can confide these feelings. 
If the officers here were to hear me say that I was not satisfied, they would 
say I was foolish, that I had the most pleasant place in the regiment, new and 
handsome quarters, almost unlimited personal liberty, more so than any of 
them, and very little to do, but I feel something beyond that. Please write me 
and tell me what you think of my aspirations and where I am wrong in them." 



MEMOIR. 21 



Influenced by these appeals, the author applied for, and 
in November, obtained, for Frederick, a Presidential 
appointment as Assistant Adjutant General, with the rank 
of Captain ; an api)ointment which was subsequently con- 
firmed by the Senate. I was present when this appointment 
was handed to him by that devoted patriot and able cabinet 
officer, Edwin M. Stanton. He observed as he gave it, "I 
trust I shall hereafter have the pleasure of conferring on 
you higher honors ; " to which Frederick modestly replied, 
"I hope my future conduct will give you no reason to 
regret the confidence reposed in me." 

Frederick had learned of the reputation already acquired 
by that brave and rising young General, Henry E. Davies, 
Jr., of the cavalry service, and he asked for and obtained 
an order to report to him for duty. His departure from 
the old 7th Regiment was the occasion for nuich regrets, 
with officers and men, and with himself. The officers 
assembled to bid him an aftectionate farewell, and the 
regimental band serenaded him on the eve of his departin-e. 
This noble regiment took the field the following spring 
with more than 1760 bayonets, and of these Ijrave men, 
how few, either officers or men, are now surviving ! 

On the 12th of Novcmljer, soon after his departure. 
Colonel Morris issued an order appointing his successor, 
Avhich was duly made public, and contained the following 
handsome allusion to the late Adjutant. 

" The Colonel commanding while he rejoices at the promotion of Captain 
Tremain, regrets that it will send him to a new field of duty and sever his 
connection with this regiment. 

" He will bear with him the best wishes of the officers of the regiment for 
his future welfare and success." 

Pursuant to orders, Frederick reported for duty to 
General Davies, then connnanding the first brigade in the 
third division of the cavalry corps. The new field of duty 



22 MEMOIR. 



thus opened to him, was specially suited to his taste and 
feelings. It was the cavalry service, and the excitement, 
life and dash of that arm of the service were peculiarly 
adapted to his ardent and enthusiastic nature. He became 
devotedly fond of the cavalry service ; the remainder of 
his life was spent in it, and he became more and more 
interested in and attached to it. An accomplished and 
veteran officer who knew Frederick Avell, and who had 
been for nearly a year in the same division with him, 
remarked to the author recently, " Frederick was our l)eau 
ideal of a cavalry officer. Brave, generous and chivalrous 
he attracted our admiration. We were all proud of him. 
He had no enemy in the corps, and he achieved a reputation 
for gallantry equal to that of any officer in the army." 

When he first joined his new brigade, he found it under 
marching orders, and skirmishing between it and the enemy 
occurred within a day or two afterwards, near Raccoon 
Ford. His thanksgiving dinner was made up of hard tack 
eaten while the enemy's shells were bursting around liim. 

Being ever anxious to pass the holidays at home, Fred- 
erick, this year, as he had done the year preceding, while 
stationed at Washington, obtained a short leave of absence, 
and spent Christmas and New Years in All)any. His l)rief 
visit, only too short, was the occasion of the most delightful 
happiness to himself and every member of his father's 
family. 

Soon after his return, and about the 20th of January, he 
was ordered by General Pleasanton, then commanding the 
cavalry corps, to leave the ])rigade with which he was 
connected, which had another Assistant Adjutant General, 
and report for duty to the first brigade and second division, 
which had recently lost its Assistant Adjutant General. 
He assumed his new position about the middle of January. 



MEMOIR. 23 



This ])rigade was one of the largest and finest in the army, 
and was then under tlie eonnnand of Colonel Taylor. It 
was stationed at Warrenton, a pleasant village in Virginia. 
In April following, General Davies was placed in command 
of this Ijrigade. Frederick remained with this brigade 
until his death. In a letter written January 27th, he writes 
of l)eing pleasantly located, in a fine office, in the centre 
of the village, which was formerly occupied by a Virginia 
lawyer and judge, and adds, 

"We surrouiifl this town with our picket lines, and tliey are attackerl 
nearly every night by guerillas, which kind of vermin abound in this region." 

He writes from time to time, during the winter and in 
March, about the gay times in the army, several balls 
having been given, besides racing, sack racing, hurdle 
racing, a grand St. Patrick's day celel:) ration by the Irish 
brigade, and he speaks in the highest terms of the officers 
with whom he was associated. The latter part of March 
the division received orders to be in readiness for a move, 
at a moments notice, and he writes, March 21st : 

'• On Saturday we had a rumor that Stuart had crossed the Rapidan river 
and was about to make a raid upon the railroad near here. Scouting parlies 
were immediately sent out in pursuit of him, and we only ceased sending 
them, to-day. I think he found it would not bo practicable to go very far 
through this country just now." 

In the month of April commenced those grand move- 
ments of the cavalry which have l^ccome already historic. 
From that time, down to his death, the active military career 
of Frederick may l)e said to have been accomplished. 
He was an actor in those mighty military movements on 
which depended the fate of the Nation. He was a soldier 
of the Republic, in the gi'cat army whose tread shook the 
continent of America, and whose heroic deeds have excited 
the wonder and admiration of the world. 



24 MEMOIR. 



To the i^en of history belongs the noble task of recording 
the military operations in which he had the honor to 
participate during the ever memorable campaign of 18G4. 
And yet, when we consider the bloody and obstinate 
nature of the battles that were fouo-ht — the fflorious and 
unconquerable resolution which was displayed in con- 
ducting the movements of the Union armies — the immense 
loss of human life — the masterly combinations of those 
armies — the vast extent of country which constituted the 
field of their display — the number of those brilliant raids 
performed by the cavalry alone, through the heart of an 
enemy's country, each one constituting an interesting 
history of itself — the toil, the sacrifices, the fatigue, suffer- 
ings and perils to which the heroic soldiers in those armies 
were continually subjected, and to which, with unflinching 
fortitude and cheerfulness, they submitted — when w^e con- 
sider, too, the innumerable deeds of personal bravery, 
performed both by oflicers and men — the holy and patriotic 
purposes by wliich the great body of those armies was 
prompted — the unselfish willingness they manifested to 
sacrifice their lives for the preservation of the honor, the 
integrity, and the unity of their country — and, finall}^ the 
glorious and successful results of all these operations, we 
may well doubt whether history will ever contain more 
than an outline skeleton of them all. 

My allusions to these movements must, necessarily, be 
brief and imperfect. A few weeks before his death, 
Frederick, at my request, declared his resolution to 
prepare, at his first leisure moments, a record of the 
battles in which he had been engaoed, but alas I that leisure 
never came ! 

His reports, as Assistant Adjutant General, giving a 
history of these movements, are not yet accessible to the 



pu1)lic, and I have derived no information from them. He 
participated in no less than twent}'-five l)attk>s and skir- 
mishes during a period of ten months. My knowk'dge of 
these is derived from his own letters, dashed off in the 
midst of exciting scenes, from his conversations, and from 
information cheerfully furnished by cultivated and intelli- 
gent army officers, who were associated with him, at 
difierent periods of time during the campaign. 

On the 22d of April, the Second Cavalry Division, which 
included the Second Brigade, to which Frederick was 
attached, moved from Warrenton to a place near the 
Junction, the whole division being under the command of 
Major General David M. Grcijg. Here it remained until 
the 29th, when it advanced to Paoli Mills, and on the 2d 
of May moved over to Kichardsville. 

On the 4tli of May the cavalry crossed the Rapidau, in 
advance of the infantry, and the whole army of the 
Potomac crossed soon after in pursuance of General 
Grant's orders. This was the beginniuo; of the general 
movement of the army, the intelligence of which sent a 
thrill of excitement throughout the country. 

The famous battles of tke Wilderness soon followed. 
These commenced on the 5th, and continued for seven 
days. They were fought without artillery, under great 
disadvantages, in the woods, with varied fortunes ; and 
during their continuance were displayed tliose wonderful 
qualities of courage and dogged resolution for which 
General Grant has become so distinguished, and also the 
bravery and heroism which have covered with glory, the 
Army of the Potomac. The loss of life was inunense, but 
the rebels were driven from the ground, and our army 
moved onward in its progress towards the walls of Rich- 

4 



26 MEMOIR. 



mond, and towards the accomplishment of the great object 
Avhich current events seem so phunly to indicate must 
ultimately be accomplished. 

On the first day of these battles, the cavaliy became 
engaged with the enemy's cavalry and infantry, in the 
vicinity of Todd's Tavern, near Corbin's Bridge. 

Severe fighting was continued by the cavalry for several 
days. This was the first time Fkederick was " under fire." 
His conduct on the occasion excited great admiration. He 
displayed all the coolness of a veteran. His General, in 
speaking of his gallantry soon afterwards, remarked, "that 
he was one of the few men he had seen who did not seem 
to know the meaning of fear." 

On the first day the cavalry were mounted, and the staff 
officers were much exposed. General Davies and Frederick 
were in front, when the enemy charged in and broke our 
skirmish line, nearly capturing both of them. This cavalry 
eno-airement is known as the battle of Todd's Tavern. It 
was during the progress of this battle that Frederick 
charged upon the enemy, at the head of a column, breaking 
through their lines, and cutting his way back to the main 
army. 

In the evening of May 8th, an order was received, 
commanding the cavalry corps to proceed to Richmond 
and destroy the communications between Lee's army and 
that city, and to form a junction with Butler's army. The 
movement of the entire cavalry corps commanded by 
General Sheridan, commenced on the morning of the 
9th. In the afternoon of that day the enemy attacked the 
cavalry in the rear, and a severe fight occiUTed in which 
the rebels were repulsed with considerable loss. This 
occurred at a place called Childsburg. The cavalry only 
took with them on this march rations for four or five days. 



MEMOIR. 27 



On the 10th another attack was made by the enemy, 
folloAved up by continued skirmishing and lighting. Our 
cavahy succeeded, this day, in recapturing from the enemy 
about 350 prisoners, who had been captured on the second 
or third day of the tight in the Wilderness. Among them 
were two colonels and Captain Wood, a son of the Honor, 
able Bradford Wood, of All)any. As may well be supposed, 
they were delighted with the change in their condition. 
They were on the point, when retaken, of being placed in 
the railroad cars at Beaver Dam Station. Some of their 
guard fled, and the rest were taken prisoners. Our troops, 
on the same day, captured a large quantity of arms, about 
a million rations, and destroyed three locomotives besides 
three trains of cars. The night of the 10th they encamped 
within twenty miles of Richmond. 

In the morning of the 11th, the First Brigade was 
detached from the main body and sent to destroy the 
railroad at Ashland Station and the bridge over the South 
Anna River. At Ashland the contents of a Post Office 
were seized, and as a school for young ladies was located 
here, the captured correspondence afforded some amuse- 
ment to the captors. 

Frederick accompanied the brigade, and after destroying 
the railroad at Ashland, he was sent, with two squadrons 
of cavalry, (about one hundred men), to destroy the bridge, 
when he was cut off from the main body of the brigade, 
and was supposed, for some time, to have been taken 
prisoner. He continued, however, on another route, des- 
troying the railroad as they proceeded, until late in the 
afternoon, when he succeeded in rejoining the main column 
below, much to the satisfaction of his comrades, Avho had 
despaired of seeing him and his little force again. The same 
day a severe fight occurred at Old Tavern, with the enemy's 
cavalry under the famous Jeb Stewart, who was killed. 



28 M E M I R. 



That night the corps marched all night, and on the 
morning of the 12th reached the Chickahominy river, near 
ISIeadow's Bridge. Here a terrific battle ensued with the 
whole of the enemy's cavalry force and infantry, which had 
Ijcen sent out from Richmond. The enemy greatly out- 
numbered our forces, and, during a considerable portion of 
the time, our troops were surrounded, and fighting was 
carried on around four sides of tlie square where our 
troops were placed, but, under the command of the 
indomitable Sheridan, they broke through the enemy's 
lines, and in the afternoon. General Custer having driven 
the enemy from the bridge, our forces crossed the Chicka- 
hominy, leaving no prisoners in the enemy's hands, except 
those who were wounded. 

In this battle the fragment of a spent shell Avas hurled 
against Frederick's person, inflicting a pretty severe injury, 
although he treated it lightly in his letter to his mother 
describing the raid. 

It was during this raid that Frederick was sent in 
advance to place a squadron on picket duty, and they came 
so near the city of Richmond as to see the lights and the 
steeples, and to hear the bells of the city. This engagement 
is known as the battle of Richmond Heights. The enemy 
did not pursue, and that night the corps bivouacked at a 
place beyond Mechanicsville. On the night of the 13tli 
the cavalry remained at Bottom's Bridge, and on the 14th 
moved to Haxall's Landing, on the James river, where our 
gun boats mistaking the advance guard for the enemy, at 
first, fired upon them, but on being signalled the firing 
ceased, and the tired and worn out troops formed the 
contemplated junction with Butler's army, 

Thus terminated one of the most extraordinary raids on 
record. It will ever retain a place among the most 



MEMOIR. 



29 



brilliant achievements of tlie war. A force of cavalry 
alone advanced through the heart of Virginia, to the very 
gates of Richmond, cutting their way through all opposing 
forces, breaking up the enemy's lines of communication, 
removing forever all antiquated prejudices against the 
cavalry, and establishing the efficiency and usefulness of 
that arm of the service. 

The successful accomplishment of this expedition seems 
more like romance than sober reality. From that hour 
the rising star of General Sheridan has l)een in the 
ascendant, and a grateful people will ever cherish, with 
gratitude and pride, the recollection of the feats performed 
by him and his l)old raiders of the cavalry corps. 

On his arrival at the James river, Frederick wrote a 
'etter to his mother, in pencil, giving a graphic accoimt of 
the raid, which was published at the time in the Eveuino- 
Journal. In alluding to this publication, afterwards, he 
wrote with characteristic modesty : 

" I am sorry that any of my letters are published. I do not write them 
for publication, and do not wish them published; I hope that no more will 
be, for if they are, I shall stop giving any accounts at all.'" 

To return to the cavalry : They lay at the James river 
two or three days, to recruit the tired horses and men, and 
then moved back, to rejoin the main army, crossing the 
Chickahominy by night, at Jones' Ford, and returning by 
way of the Baltimore Cross Roads and Coal Harbor. 
Daily skirmishes took place with the rebel cavalry. They 
then went to the White House, where they olitained sup- 
plies and rations, after which they marched back and joined 
the main army near Hanover Court Honse, on the 25th, 
having successfully accomplished all that had been expected. 

Immediately afterwards there was a general advance 
of the army, and the cavalry moved down to Hanover 



30 MEMOIR. 



Town, on the Pamunkey river. After marching two days 
and one night they met the enemy on the 28th near Haw's 
Shop, when the most severe and obstinate cavalry fight of 
the war occurred. It commenced at 10 o'clock in the 
morning, and continued until six in the afternoon, the 
fighting on our side being done j^rincipall}^ l)y Gen. Davies' 
Brigade, assisted towards the close of the battle hy Gen. 
Custer's Brigade, when the enemy were driven from the 
field, leaving their killed and wounded in possession of 
our troops. 

Although Frederick distinguished himself in this battle, 
as appears by the letter from one of the stafi'oflicers, which 
is published with this memorial, yet, in his letter home he 
makes no allusion to his own conduct. In a letter written 
to his father on the 30th, he had, for the first time, evinced 
some depression of spirits, but in a subsequent one, dated 
June 3d, he apologizes for it, and gives a brief description 
of the fight. He writes : 

" I was feeling badly then, and the reason was, that on the 28th we lost 
Lieutenant Wardell, of our staff. He was nay tent mate, and for a long 
time we had slept together and were very intimate, indeed. He was killed 
instantly while riding at the General's side. The fight of Hanover Town on 
the 28th is said to have been the most severe cavalry fight of the war. The 
fighting was done principally by our brigade. We were in about eight hours 
and lost 25 officers and 168 men, killed and wounded. 

" The General was riding a white horse, and went up on to the skirmish 
line with two staff-officers, two orderlies and one bugler. One staff-officer 
was killed instantly, the other had his horse killed, and the bugler was also 
killed. The General's horse was shot through the tail, and a bullet broke his 
scalibard. It is my duty to be with the General always, unless sent away 
s))ecially, and fortunately for me, I was so sent to another part of the field, 
and was looking for the General when this occurred, and in one minute more 
would have have been in the same place, had I not met him coining out 
when he stopped me. 

" I send a rebel paper. You will see by it that thej^ supposed our whole 
cavalry force was engaged, together with two corps of infantry, while actually 
there was only our brigade, assisted for the last three hours by General 
Custer's brigade, but the brunt of the fighting was done by this brigade. 



MEMOIR. 31 



They say they only had one brigade, but in another part of the paper they 
admit having several detatchments of other brigades. "We know from our 
prisoners that their whole cavalry force was engaged, together with some 
mounted infantry. We found on the field, after we had driven them from 
it, 106 dead rebels, and 40 wounded ones, and as there are usually eight or 
ten wounded to one killed, their loss must have been immense. 

" My horse was shot slightly in the neck. Since then we have had several 
smaller fights, but I have not time now to mention them." 

This battle is known as the battle of Haw's Shop, or 
Bethesda Church. Between this time and the Gordonsville 
raid, hereafter mentioned, there was considerable severe 
fighting around Coal Harlior, at Barker's Mills and on the 
Chickahominy, in which the cavalry participated. The 
wdiole army moved down finally to Bottom's Bridge. 
Before going to Bottom's Bridge the cavalry had a severe 
engagement at Sumner's Upper Bridge, and wdiile dis- 
mounted held possession of it for some time, and imtil 
relieved by the infantry. 

We come now to another of those celebrated cavalry 
raids which have given to General Sheridan and his famous 
cavalry corps, a national and world-wide reputation. 

On the 6th of June the cavalry corps left Newcastle, on 
the Pamunkey river, and after marching days and nights, 
with only four hours in the twenty-four devoted to rest, 
on the 11th met the enemy at Trevillian Station, near 
Gordonsville, when a severe battle ensued, wdiicli continued 
for two days, the enemy having the ad\'antage of fighting 
behind breastworks. We captured several hundred prison- 
ers, but finding it impossible to break through their forti. 
fications, our troops retired, and returned by way of 
Spottsylvania Court House, a circuitous route, to White 
House, where our wagon train was, consisting of al)out 
900 wagons loaded with supplies for the army. General 
Grant had meanwhile changed his base of supplies from 



Wliite House to James river, leaving the wagon train of 
the cavalry corps at White House. 

The rebels, having the inside line, had also been 
marching upon White House, hoping to capture this train 
before the arrival of the cavalry corps, Ijut in this hope 
they were doomed to disappointment. Our troops arrived 
a little in advance of the enemy, and on the 21st a sharp 
tight took place at White House, in which the First 
Brigade participated, which resulted in driving the enemy 
from the field, and the occupation of the ground by our 
victorious troops. 

Our trains were forwarded to the army at James river. 
On the second day's march General Gregg having com- 
mand of the second division, was detached with his division 
to cover the right of the column. 

About six miles from the main column he met a very 
heavy force of the enemy's cavalry and infjmtry at a place 
called St, Mary's Church, when another sanguinary and 
hard-fought battle took place, attended with severe loss. 
This occurred on the 24th of June. 

The fighting on our side was conducted l)y a single 
division against the enemy's entire corps, our troops and 
horses 1)eing tired and Av^orn out by the Gordonsvillc raid, 
as they had been allowed no rest whatever. 

In this battle Frederick again distinguished himself b}^ 
his coolness and bravery, having been charged with im- 
portant and perilous duties, and being exposed under such 
circumstances that his commanding General afterwards 
expressed his wonder that any mounted officer could survive. 
He was charged with the order to bring off the 1st 
Pennsylvania cavalry, and remained in the field until it had 
left. 



MEMOIR. 33 



The general description of this stubl)orn tight is con- 
tained in the following letter, written from the tield, which 
was published in a Philadelphia paper and sent to me by 
Frederick : 

*' About four miles from the road the train was on, General Gregg met the 
enemy, apparently in heavy force, but as his men and horses were completely 
worn out he could not stand fight as long as his presence quietly kept the 
enemy froni the train. The enemy seemed to dread our presence, thinking 
Sheridan's whole corps was before them. They spent the whole day 
throwing up breastworks and intrenching themselves, until about 2 P. M. 
They captured a despatch from General Gregg to General Sheridan, from 
w^hicli they learned there was nothing before them but the one division. 
They, on the contrary, having their entire corps (three divisions), imme- 
diately set about to take advantage of our weakness. And then followed the 
hardest cavalry fight any portion of our corps has ever experienced. As 
usual the enemy were in thick wood, dismounted. To meet them our force 
must dismount also. About four P. M. they commenced the attack. Con- 
scious of their superior numbers they pressed on closer and closer, which 
only effected a shorter range, for our men stood firm upon their first footing. 
Charge followed charge, made by at least four times the number opposing 
them, but our steady carbineers hurled them back each time with terrible 
slaughter. 

'' Battery A, Second United States Artillery, commanded by Lieutenant 
Denisen here did splendid execution at short range, kept up a constant 
stream of fire into their ranks, and met each charge with grape and canister. 
For two hours the conflict thus raged, our force stubbornly holding them, 
until by overwhelming numbers they were able to flank us both right and 
left. The first Maine and first Pennsylvania cavalry, the first Maine com- 
manded by Colonel Smith and Major Cilley, first Pennsylvania by Colonel 
Taylor and Lieutenant-Colonel Gardner, were the last to leave the field. By 
the stubborn tenacity of these two regiments our battery was kept upon the 
field until they had exhausted their ammunition, and then brought safely 
off. To no two regiments, perhaps, in the corps could this position have 
been better assigned. The train was now safely passed, and fortunately 
for it that it was, for at this juncture of affairs General Gregg's divison 
of cavalry was for the first time in the history of its organization com- 
pelled to retsre, but^ in a masterly manner, leaving the field in the hand^ 
of the enemy. Many of our men, to the number of one hundred and fifty 
exhausted by heat, want of water and fatigue of foot, fell into the hands o 
the enemy. In the many battles in which General Gregg has fought his 
division, always distinguishing himself by his cool bravery and high-toned 

5 



MEMOIR. 



military ability, never has he so covered himself an«l his command with 
glory, and so fully established its fighting qualities, as on this occasion. 
And never perhaps before have we so signally shown the superiority of onr 
cavalry over that of the enemy — one division of onrs pitched against their 
entire corps, and the contest almost equal. To-day we got our train safely 
to the James, at Wyandotte Landing, where it is rapidly being transported 
to the south side of the river." 

During this buttle Feederick rode within a very short 
distance of the enemy's skirmish line, and by discovering 
their presence, was al)le to prevent General Gregg from 
mistaking them for our oAvn troops, and possibly falling 
into their hands, as the dust by which all the troops were 
covered had already deceived him. 

Soon afterwards the cavalry reached the James river at 
Pine Oak Landing, and on the 26th Frederick wrote a 
letter, covering four sheets, to his brother, from w hich I 
make the following extracts : 

" TVe arrived here about noon yesterday, very tired, very dirty and very 
ragged, and immediately there commenced a general bathing, and after we 
were washed our wagons had arrived, and our little American trunks trotted 
out, and every man came out (that is the Greneral and Staff) with a new suit 
of clothes and a "boiled' shirt, and then, for the first time in twelve days, 
we had a regular meal and time enough to sit down and enjoy it, and enjoy 
it we did, although you might think it scarcely fit to eat : Some ham, coffee 
with milk, as we captured a cow yesterday, soft bread, (we have been living 
on the hardest of the hard tack for twelve or fourteen days) and a few raw 
onions, composed our dinner — Oh, yes, we had mustard besides, butter we 
had none, and that 'aint the worst of it. Oh, well, it is jolly any way, and 
is all for one's country. 

" Bulct estpropatria etc., youknow, and hunger is splendid sauce. That 
bread tasted better, without butter, than any I remember to have tasted. 
You see we were ordered to provide ourselves with ten days' supplies, and 
we did so, expecting that we would be back in tiiat time, and in fact it 
would have been inconvenient to have carried any more. Well, the joke of 
the whole affair was, that we were away jast twenty days, and traveling 
through the most poverty-stricken conntry on the face of the earth, hence 
no subsisting on the enemy's country and mighty little to eat. 

" Well, any way, after that dinner which took place about 4 P.M., the 
General and Staff laid down to rest, and they rested, aud every one of us 



MEMOIR. 35 



slept from about five o'clock yesterday afternoon until this morning, and as a 
natural consequence of sleeping and resting too long at once, every one's 
arms and legs ache badly this morning. 

'• We are now all sitting on the grass in front of a large house, our head- 
quarters, writing letters, witli just enough on to cover our nakedness, and 
that's all, for it is awful hot, and even boiling. The heat for the past week 
has been almost unendurable, but we could, with an effort, stand it — we 
were obliged to, as we w^ere in the saddle all the time, and to-day it has 
reached the culminating point. If it does not rain soon your beloved brother 
stands a good chance of just vanishing, leaving merely a greasy indication 
of his former presence on this mundane sphere. 

" Wg are expecting to remain still a few days. Our horses are entirely 
played out and must have rest and feed and care. I have lost Black Dan 
I suppose. He was shot at Haw's Shop on the 28tli ult., and I am afraid I 
will have to shoot him, but can't tell yet. I am having him doctored now 
and must await the result. 

" Here I have written this long letter and scarcely told you anything about 
the raid. Well, we left Newcastle, on the Pamunkey river, on the 6th, at 
4-| A.M., and marched day and night, sleeping about Tour hours out of the 
twenty-four for five days. On the Uth about 10 A.M. we met the rebel 
cavalry corps and licked them like 'the old boy ; fought all that day — stopped 
at dark. Our brigade was not in much on the 11th, but on the 12th at 
about six the fighting commenced again, and our brigade was in. We fought 
all day and drove the enemy out of their breastworks, and about three miles 
beyond them. This was at or near Gordonsville. Our object in coming up 
was, I suppose, to stop their cavalry that they were trying to push up to 
help Imboden, who was fighting Hunter's forces in the Valley of the Shenan- 
doah, but they did not push so much as before, as we did the pushing, and 
pushed them back to near Richmond. 

" Then we started back, having 370 rebel prisoners. We marched day and 
night until we got to AV^hitc House, on the 20th, and then we found that the 
rebels had gone around one way while we had gone another, and both making 
for the White House, where was our cavalry corps train. We got there a 
little before they did and crossed over and gave them fight on the 21st, suc- 
caeding in driving them, when they made for the Chickahominy. We hai 
no chance of getting anything out of our wagons as we had to send them on, 
and keep between them and the rebs., and so we marched until the day 
before yesterday, when the train had got down to this river. 

" Our division alone staid out about eight miles from here all the morning, 
holding the whole rebel cavalry in check, fighting a little now and then 
during the day until about 4 P.M., when the whole rebel corps of cavalry 
pitched in and whipped us badly, in fact they just pushed us away by main 



36 M E M I R. 



force, and we went away splendidly. I never saw such fighting in my life, 
and General Gregg said he never saw men fight so. They out-numbered us 
four to one, it was just the hottest place ever you heard of. They charged up 
to within a few steps of where I stood. Oh ! I can't begin to tell you how the 
bullets did fly. I was ordered to conduct the withdrawal of the last regi- 
ment, and I never expected to come out; indeed I bade two or three of the 
staff officers good bj-e and started. I got within five steps of the rebel 
lines, and have a bullet hole in my hat which looks as if I was rather near 
to them, but I succeeded in retreating with the last regiment in good order. 
I lost two of my most intimate friends that day, one, a Captain Philips, on 
General Gregg's Staff; his leg was shot away near the hip. The shot that 
did it went through his horse before it struck him ; he only lived an hour 
or so, and night before last, I helped bury him in the middle of the night, 
with no ceremony. 

" Oh well, we retreated in good order, and about ten at night slept for 
three hours, when we were reinforced, and went out yesterday after them 
but they would not fight, but kept going back, so we having by that time 
got our trains safe near the main army, stopped here to rest, and here I 
think I had better stop — to rest." 

The " Black Dan" he mentions was a favorite horse which, 
while owned by Governor Morgan, had attracted his 
attention and was purchased for his use. In a letter written 
July 6th, he mourns his death, but adds : " Poor fellow ! 
I was very sorry for him, but consoled myself by thinking 
that as fine a horse as he was, it was better him than me." 

During the months of July and August several severe 
skirmishes and battles took place, in which his brigade and 
he participated, viz. : At Eeams' Station on the 15th of 
July ; at Malvern Hill on the 28th of July ; at Lee's 
Mills July 31st ; at Gravel Hill on the 14th, l(5th and 17th 
days of August, and again at Reams' Station on the 21st, 
22d, 23d and 25th days of August. 

On one of these occasions. General Davies being absent 
on sick leave, and the brigade under the command of Col. 
Steadman, Frederick had been ordered to the hospital 
on account of his health, and was being carried in an 
ambulance. Hearing the firing of the guns he left the 



MEMOIR. 37 



ambulance and came to the nearest body of troops, which 
proved to be the 10th New York Cavalry ; and here took an 
active part in the battle, firing with his own hand, cheering 
the men, and exposing his person to the enemy's fire. His 
conduct excited the enthusiastic admiration of the men in 
the regiment, and aided in preparing them to give him the 
warm M^elcome which he subsequently received from them 
when he became the Lieutenant-Colonel of that regiment. 
On being spoken to on the subject he remarked, that in 
the absence of the General he felt that a peculiar responsi. 
bility rested on the members of the staff ; that he knew 
the eyes of the army were on the second brigade, which 
occupied an advanced position, and had acquired a fine 
reputation, and that he regarded his own honor as iden- 
tified with that of the brigade. 

The battle at Reams' Station, the latter part of August 
was a sanguinary affair, and Frederick was then l)ronght 
alongside of his old regiment, the 7th New York Artillery. 
I learn from Captain O'Brien, that Frederick volunteered 
to deliver an important message to the officer commanding 
a battery, which was done under a heavy fire. 

He never returned to the hospital, but his health was so 
much impaired that nothing lint his indomitable resolution 
enabled him to keep his saddle. In a letter to his father 
dated August 31st, he alludes in terms of warm admiration 
to the conduct of the old 7th at Reams' Station ; naming 
several former comrades belonging to it who were killed, 
and others taken prisoners; mentions that the conduct of his 
own brijrade had received much credit in Gen. Hancock's 
official reports ; remarks that there had been considerable 
fio-htino- for the Weldon Railroad, in nearly all of which 
he had the honor to participate, and thus alludes to his 
own health : 



38 MEMOIR. 



"You can have no idea of the excessive fatigue to which we have been 
subjected this month, and especially for an A. A. G. I do not want to take 
a sick leave unless I am actually obliged to, for it is not considered very 
honorable to leave the field upon the plea of sickness, when one is only 
about half sick. There are so many shoulder-strapped individuals that are 
hiding under the shadow of a surgeon's certificate, that I don't want to be 
ranked among that class." 

In a letter to hi.s sister dated September 3d, he says : 

" Since writing to father, three days ago, we have marched nearly 40 
miles, and have had quite a hard fight — I fortunately escaped. We lost 
quite severely, and this morning we returned and camped in nearly the same 
place from which I wrote father. We cannot tell how long we will be 
allowed to remain quiet ; indeed since July 25tli we have not been forty-eight 
hours in one place, and as you may easily imagine, we have had but little 
time to write, while the wear, tear and fatigue have been terrible. I have 
been so tired at times that I would go to sleep on horseback. Only last 
night I was so much worn out that I laid down under a tree and went sound 
asleep while it was raining, and I had not a thing over me. I could not 
help it. 

" I write and tell you this, Nellie, so that you can have some slight idea of 
the reasons for my not writing you in answer to your letters promptly, and 
not because I am complaining at all. 

" When we do get a chance to stop any where I have a great many 
written reports to make, and cannot neglect them, and after they are done 
I am so tired that I generally try and go to sleep, for a little while, and 
letter writing becomes next to an impossibility. lam not very well, but 
am on duty, and shall remain so as long as I am able. 

" I was very sorry to hear ofG's sickness, and glad to learn he was getting 
better. He should fiongratulate himself that he was where he could be 
taken care of — here, when one gets sick he gets very litle care I assure you. 
They do the best they can, of course, but a tent, and the ground make but 
an indill'crent sick room and bed. 

''We have had some very hard fighting over this Wcldon Railroad, and 
you can congratulate yourself that you still have a brother in the armj'. I 
have several times made up my mind that you would not have long, but I 
have been so far spared. I have not written you, Nellie, about anything 
else than myself, but I know that I am the one that you want to hear about 
and so shall offer no excuse." 

Frederick's duties as Assistant Adjutant General were 
congenial to his tastes, and adapted to his capacity, but 
yet they had been exceedingly arduous and laborious. He 



MEMOIR. 39 



was chief of the brigade staff. His labors during a march 
commenced early and continued late. lie thus explains 
them in a condensed form, in answer to my inquiry on the 
subject i 

'•' To attend to all the details of a movement ; in battle, to remain with the 
General, and if any orders are given, to give them to the aids for the regi- 
mental commanders, or whomsoever they may concern ; to watch the lines, 
and whenever, in my opinion, an advantage can be gained, to show it to 
the General, if he has not already perceived it, and if the aids are all away 
on duty, and an important order is issued, to carry it myself and see that it 
is obeyed; sometimes to push on one flank of the skirmish line while the 
General is pushing on another, and in every way to watch the eflTect of 
movements ordered, and in fact, to be an assistant to the General, Ton the 
field an order from me is the same as one from him), and after a fight to 
camp the several regiments, to see, personally, that a proper picket line is 
thrown out, to make official reports of operations, and returns of killed, 
wounded and missing, damage done, i<cc., &c." 

Upon receiving the letters of August 31st and Sept. 
3d, the author applied directly to the Secretary of War 
for a brief leave of absence, which, having been promptly 
granted, Frederick made a short but delig-htful visit to 
his home in September. Recovering his health and strength 
he rejoined the army in time to participate in the battle of 
Davis Farm, on the Vaughn Road, on the 1st of Octol)er. 

For an account of his gallant bearing on that occasion I 
refer to the letter from Major Thomas, who served on the 
same staff. A description of this brilliant affair was given 
in the New York Herald. The iirst brigade Averc dis- 
mounted, and bravely resisted an attac-k by an enemy 
largely outnuni1)ering them, and then, M'ith a gallant 
charge, routed and drove them from the held. 

He also participated in the first battle of Hatcher's Run, 
on the 2Gth of November, and in the movement in the 
latter part of November, by which General Gregg and his 
division advanced to Stonej' Creek, destroying the bridge 



and several pieces of artillery, capturing prisoners and 
successfully accomplishing the object of the advance. 

On the 6th of December orders were received for the 
cavalry to move at three o'clock the next morning, with 
six days rations. The movement was made when the 
weather was very cold, and on the 9th a severe engagement 
took place at Bellfield. Major Sargeant of the 1st Mas- 
sachusetts Cavalry was shot while riding by the side of 
Frederick during the fight, an event which produced a 
serious impression upon his mind. It is understood that 
the movement was eminently successful. 

A full account of this aft'air was given in the Herald, 
written by its army correspondent. In the official report 
of the movement Frederick had the honor of being men- 
tioned as " having behaved with the greatest gallantry and 
zeal, and having contributed greatly to the success of the 
brigade by valuable service." 

The time was now approaching for severing his ofiicial 
connection, as Assistant Adjutant General, with General 
Davies and his brigade stafi" — a relation cemented by their 
common sufie rings, perils and glories. A vacancy had 
occurred in the Colonelcy of the 10th New York Cavaliy, 
by the withdrawal from that position of Colonel Irvine, 
the present accomplished and patriotic Adjutant General 
of New York. Lieutenant-Colonel Avery, being about to 
l)e promoted to fill the vacancy, tendered the position of 
Lieutenant-Colonel to Frederick. Colonel Avery had be- 
come well acquainted with Frederick while he was 
Assistant Adjutant General. Gen. Irvine informs me that 
Gen. Gregg also advised the selection of Frederick, as it 
would be an acquisition to the regiment. 

Having ascertained that all the oflicers of the regiment 
were in favor of his appointment, he resolved to accept the 



MEMOIR. 41 



position, and without delay commissions were issued by 
his Excellency Governor Seymour, for Colonel Avery and 
Lieutenant-Colonel Tremaiu, but a brief delay in mustering 
in became necessary to cnal)le the regiment to become 
recruited to the requisite number for mustering in the new 
officers. 

This position was peculiarly agreeable to Frederick. 
It was placing him in the line of promotion in the cavalry 
service, and in his old brigade, where he was so w^ell 
acquainted with officers and men. Colonel Avery, although 
a veteran in service, having been iu more than sixty battles 
and skirmishes, was young in years, and both being 
influenced by similar tastes, ambitions and patriotic pur. 
poses, a strong attachment existed between them. His 
brother having written from Union College a congratu- 
latory letter on his appointment, Frederick replies : 

" I am, of course, much obliged to jovl for your congratulations, but 
must correct some of your ideas. It requires more courage and secures less 
reputation generally to be an active and useful staff-officer of a brigade, than 
to command a regiment. A staff-officer is in every engagement, while a 
regiment may, in some battles, be held in reserve. At times when the 
officers and men of regiments are fighting on foot, a staff-officer has to carry 
orders to them mounted, thereby exposing himself much more than it is 
possible for a lieutenant-colonel to do. 

" The difference is, that a staff-officer is only an adjutant or assistant, 
while a commanding officer shares, and almost, in fact, monopolizes the 
reputation that his staff-officers and men have won. 

'' Your congratulations are premature also, as I am not a lieutenant- 
colonel until I am mustered into the United States service, • • • Now 
that I suppose you have got over the temporary exultation, please do not 
mention the affair any more until I am a lieutenat-colonel, and am entitled 
to the uniform, and then I hope to make myself a name that you need not be 
afraid to speak of, whether I shall be numbered among the living, or as one 
of the fallen. 

" Remember me to all the young ladies, but remember me to them, for 
the present, as Captain Trcmain." 

6 



42 MEMOIR. 



Frederick having resigned the office of Assistant 
Adjutant General seized the occasion to pay a holiday 
visit to his home. He arrived the evening before New 
Year's, and passed a few weeks there in a visit which will 
be cherished during life by every member of the family, 
among their most treasured recollections. 

It was a subject of general remark that he had become 
much matured by his experience in the army. While 
cheerful and hopeful, he was yet grave and thoughtful and 
fully impressed with the duties and responsibilities of his 
position. 

He returned to the army full of high hopes and expec- 
tations. Fort Fisher had fallen ; Thomas had achieved 
his great victory over Hood ; Sherman was advancing in 
triumph, and he conlidently believed that the end of the 
rebellion was at hand. 

On his return he met at AVashington, in the Invalid 
Corps, an old comrade of the 7th, and true to his nature, 
which led him to promote the welfare of others, he wrote 
a letter of introduction for him invoking the author's kind 
offices in his behalf. This was the last letter I ever received 
from him directed to me, and I give it as a fair revelation 
of the kindness of his character. 

" My DearFather. — I have the honor to introduce to you Lieutenant , 

formerly of the 7th New York Artillery, and now of the Invalid Corps. He 
was wounded in front of Petersburgli in the famous charge of June 16th, 
of the 7th New York Artillery. The shell that struck him carried away the 
left eye, and exposed the brain slightly, so that he can hardly do night duty. 
lie, therefore, wishes to be ordered on duty somewhere in New York State 
where he can still do duty , but, if possible, to someplace where he can sleep at 
night, as the loss of sleep gives him terrible pains in the head on account of 
the exposure of the brain. 

" He is a gallant officer, and has won for himself a Lieutenancy from the 
ranks as a private, and deserves all the favors that loyal men are able to 
grant him. 



MEMOIR. 43 



" If you in anyway can assist him in the accomplishment of his object, you 
will be only rendering a gallant soldier what is justly duo him. 
" Your affectionate son, 

"F. L. TREMAIN, Lt. Col. 10th N. Y. Cavalry. 
'' January 27th, 1865." 

When he joined the 10th, and had been mustered in as 
Lieutenant-Colonel, he wrote a letter to his mother 
expressing his pleasure at his reception by his new regiment 
and his gratification in being put in charge of an officer's 
school for instruction in military tactics, which letter came to 
hand on the day he received his fatal wound. I learn that 
his home and his pleasant visit were the theme of his con- 
stant conversation among his intimate friends. He was kind 
and aflfectionate in his nature, and was devotedly attached 
to every member of his father's family. " Sir," said his 
tent-mate to the author, " I felt well acquainted with every 
member of your family from Feed.'s description and fre- 
quent conversation." 

On the 7th of February, while engaged in court, I 
received from Major Pease the following telegram. " Feb. 
6th. — Fred, was seriously wounded to-day. It is thought 
not dangerously." 

The next train carried from Albany, on their way to him, 
his mother, Dr. Pomfret, (who cheerfully consented to go 
although he was home on leave) and the author. We 
arrived in Washington the next evening, and immediately, 
through the War Department, opened a telegraphic com- 
munication Math General Meade's headquarters. The first 
answer was encouraging, but alas ! the next brought the 
fatal intelligence that Lieutenant-Colonel Tremain died the 
same evening (the 8th) at City Point Hospital, that his 
remains would be embalmed, and forwarded north imme- 
diately. 



44 MEMOIR. 



Here let me draw a veil over what follows. The agony 
of spirit, the 1)ewikleriiig- effects of such a sudden and unex- 
pected blow, the crushing out of hopes, the bitterness of 
disappointment, the terrible reflection that we should never 
see him alive, the extinguishment of light, and the dark- 
ness and clouds that intervened, can be known or appreci- 
ated only by those doting parents who have passed through 
a similar furnace of atHiction ! 

The circumstances attending his death may be soon 
related. The movement which resulted in the battle of 
Hatcher's Run Avas a general advance of the whole division 
on the morning of Fel)ruary 5th, pursuant to orders. They 
were on the march all that day, and early the next morn- 
ing, while the brigade were preparing for breakfast, the 
enemy broke in upon them, and a battle ensued which 
continued all day. 

About 2 P. M., while near Dabne^^'s Mills, Frederick 
was leading his troops on the extreme left, in the skirmish 
line, and was about to make a charge, the cavalry being 
dismounted, when. General Davies having been wounded. 
Colonel Avery was called to command the brigade and 
had sent a mounted officer to notify Frederick that the 
command of the regiment had devolved upon him. While 
Frederick had turned aroimd, partly, and wiis conversing 
with the messenger, he received the fatal wound from a 
Millie ball in his hip. 

He left the field accompanied by two men, meeting on 
his way Colonel Avery who describes him as looking pale, 
and having a smile on his face. In the ambulance, he was 
overtaken by his colored servant, and said to him, cheer- 
fully, that they would soon visit Albany again. He, also, 
at the same moment, recognized his cousin. Major H. E. 
Tremain, of General Greog's staff", while he was riding by 



MEMOIR. 45 



with an important order from the general for reinforce- 
ments, hailed him, remarkino; that he was hit, perliaps 
seriously but he thought not dangerously, and then urged 
him to go on in the performance of his duty. 

He walked into the lield hospital, where General Davies 
met him, placed him upon a bed in a room by himself, 
and gave him some stimulants and a cigar. The surgeons 
extracted the ball that evening, and pronounced it trou- 
blesome only, but not dangerous. He was visited there by 
Major Pease, Major Tremain and others, who, relyiug on 
the surgeon's report, left him without serious apprehen- 
sions. The next day he was sent to City Point Hos- 
pital, fifteen or twenty miles, where he arrived, cold and 
exhausted, attended by his servant. 

He was in much pain, and not inclined to converse. The 
following day, the 8th, alarming symptoms appeared. He 
continued perfectly conscious, made his arrangements to 
leave for home, but was not made aware of the fact that 
his life was in danger, and about five o'clock, just as his 
servant had given him some water, he died, without a 
nnirnmr or complaint having escaped his lips. 

A post-mortem examination revealed the fact that the 
wound was necessarily mortal, from the first. The ball, 
after performing its course, had fallen back, and its loca- 
tion had deceived the surgeons who extracted it, and who 
supposed it merely a flesh wound. 

The intelligence of his death spread a deep gloom over 
his entire brigade, oflicers and men. A meeting of the 
l)rigade oificers, (a rare compliment in the army,) was 
called and attended by every officer not absent on duty, 
at which the accompanying excellent resolutions were 
adopted. 



46 MEMOIR. 



The remains were accompanied from City Point by Col- 
onel Avery, Major Tremain and Dr. Clark. His counten- 
ance appeared natural and life-like. 

A military funeral took place on the 16th of February, 
with honors suitable to his rank, under the charge of the 
10th New York, commanded by Colonel Chamberlain, the 
Cadet Zouave Co. A acting as an escort. Everything that 
affectionate sympathy could do to render honor to his 
memory was done by his countrymen and countrywomen. 
Flowers were sent in bountiful profusion from numerous 
male and female friends, and these were, by fair and 
tasteful hands, beautifully arranged in the form of crosses, 
wreaths, a trumpet and crown, while the coifin was fes- 
tooned and covered with them in tropical abundance. 

After appropriate religious services had been performed 
at the author's residence, the public funeral took place at 
St. Peter's Church, the Rev. Wm. Wilson and the Rev. 
"VYm. Tatlock officiating. His Excellency, Gov. Fenton, 
accompanied by his staff in full uniform, honored the 
funeral with his presence. The names of the military and 
civil bearers who attended will be recognized as among 
the noblest youth in Alliany. Sweet and solemn music by 
the choir filled the church. The citizens of Albany turned 
out, en masse, filling the spacious church and the streets, 
for long; distances. A laro-e concourse followed the remains 
to the cemetery, where, after the soldiers had fired appro- 
priate volleys over his coflfin, it was consigned to the vault. 

Thus lived and died my brave bo}^ around whom, for 
twenty-one years, had clustered my cares, my anxieties, 
my hopes and my affections 1 

No longer can we look forward with inexpressible joy 
to the termination of this war, as an event which will bring 
back, in safety and honor, the soldier we have furnished ! 



MEMOIR. 47 



The sound of carbines and artillery can no more reach 
him ! Henceforth, ^ve must be content to gaze on yonder 
mute memorials, his belt and sash, his spurs and sword, and 
other precious relics, and to feed on the memory of his 
virtues, his patriotism, and the noble record he achieved ! 
He died 3^oung ; but how many of us w ho survive have 
done more for our country and for humanity than he ? 

My work is ended. I believe this little history to be 
wholly free from coloring, but if parental fondness has 
deceived me in this belief, the otFence, I am sure, is par- 
donable. 

And now, may Almighty God, our Heavenly Father, 
grant that this great sacrifice, although not "now joyous 
but grievous may work out the peaceable fruits of right- 
eousness," — that the blood of this young martyr may aid 
in infusing fresh life into our free institutions ; — that this 
rebellion may be overthrown, so certainly and effectually, 
that in all future time, no second attempt wall be made by 
wicked men to destroy our Union by treasonable force ; — 
and may He hasten the day when the necessity for such 
sacrifices of life shall cease, and our National Unity shall 
become established on immutable and eternal foundations. 



RESOLUTIONS 

AND OTHER TESTIMONIALS. 



Headquarters 1st Brigade, 2d Cav. Division, ) 
Army op the Potomac, > 

February 10, 1865. ) 
At a meeting of the ofl&cers of the 1st Brigade, 2d Cav. Division, 
called together on account of the death of Lieutenant Colonel F. 
L. Tremain, 10th New York Cavalry, of which Colonel M. H. 
Avery was President, and Captain T. C. Lebo was Secretary, a 
committee was appointed of the following named officers, viz : 
Lieut. Colonel W. C. Newbury, 24th New York Cavalry, 
Major John Tewksbury, 1st Massachusetts Cavalry, 
Major J. H. Hart, 1st New Jersey Cavalry, 
Major H. S. Thomas, 1st Pennsylvania Cavalry, 
Bt. Major W. H. Dennison, 2d New York Artillery, 
Captain James M. Reynolds, 10th New York Cavalry, 
to prepare the following resolutions, which were unanimously 
adopted by the meeting, and the Secretary directed to furnish a 
copy to the family of the deceased, the New York papers and the 
Albany Evening Journal. 

It was further resolved, that the usual badge of mourning should 
be worn on the left arm for thirty days as a mark of respect for the 
memory of the deceased. 

Whereas, Lieut. Colonel F. L. Tremain, 10th New York Cavalry, and 
formerly Assistant Adjutant General, attached to this brigade, died on the 
8th day of February, inst.. of wounds received a few days previous while 
leading his command against the enemy, at the battle of Ilatcher's Run, 
Va.j and 

7 



50 MEMOIR. 



Whereas, In the death of this gallant soldier his regiment and brigade 
have suffered a loss of unusual severity, therefore, as the sense of the sur- 
viving officers of the brigade, be it 

Resolved, That in the purity of his life and character, in his unselfish 
patriotism, his courteous bearing, his manly courage, his earnestness of 
purpose, and high endeavors, which gave j)romise of a sure and glorious 
fulfillment, our departed brother oflicer was a shining example to us all. 

Resolved, That while we cannot forget the great loss sustained by his 
friends, his country, and the army, we cannot but look upon his death as 
another glorious sacrifice to the cause of Liberty and Union, and congratu- 
late his bereaved family that he died with his face to the foe, bravclj' 
Qghting against treason and disunion. 

Resolved, That it is with unspeakable sadness we acknowledge, that for 
the bright spirit that has left us, for his loved ones at home, for his country 
and his friends, we have nothing to ofter now but the unavailing tribute of 
this last mournful farewell. 

M. II. AVERY, Col. 10th N. Y. Cavalry, 

President. 

T. C. Lebo, Capt. and A. A. A. G., 

Secretary. 



Armory Albany Zouave Cadets, ) 

•' A " Company, 10th Regiment N. G. S. N. Y. I 

At a meeting of this company, held at their rooms on Monday 
evening, February 13, 1865, Captain Lionell U. Lenox presid- 
ing, the following preamble and resolutions were unanimously 
adopted : 

Upon the altar of our common country, and in the defence of her consti- 
tutional rights, a noble life has been offered ; in the vigor and freshness of 
youth it has been accepted. In remembrance then of the patriotism which 
characterized that sacrifice, it is fitting that the departed hero .should 
receive from us, his former companions, the earliest recognition which true 
valor deserves from all; therefore it is 

Resolved, That the Albany Zouave Cadets have learned with the deepest 
sorrow, of the death of Frederick L. Tremain, Lieutenant Colonel of the 
Tenth New York Cavalry. As a member of this company, we point with 
pride to his career as a soldier ; his genial and manly qualities as a citizen. 
The recollection of his modest bearing and sincere friendship as an asso- 
ciate ; his love for his country as a patriot, and his bravery and efliciency 
as an officer, are virtues around which our memories will love to linger. 

Resolved, That we tender our most heartfelt sympathies to the family 
and relatives of our deceased brother, and though this sad event calls forth 



MEMOIR. 51 



their deepest grief, the noble cause for which he yielded up his youthful life, 
we trust may prove a solace in their affliction, and that the sustaining grace 
of our common Father may comfort their broken hearts. 

Resolved, That as a deserved tribute of respect to his memory we will 
attend the funeral obsequies of our departed associate as a company, wearing 
the usual badge of mourning. 

Resolved, That an engrossed copy of these resolutioes be tendered to the 
family of the deceased, that a copy be also forwarded to the officers of his 
regiment, and that they be published in the daily papers of our city. 

LIONELL U. LEMOX, Captain. 



A. McRoBERTs, 1st Serg't. 



At a Special Meeting of the Xi Charge of Theta Delta Chi 
Fraternity, at Hobart College, the following resolutions were 
adopted : 

Whereas, The Xi Charge of our beloved Theta Delta Chi having received 
the intelligence of the death of our afleclionate and esteemed brother, 
Lieut. Colonel Frederick L. Tremain ; therefore be it 

Resolved, That while deeply deploring his untimely end, we submissively 
bow to the decree of the Divine Will, coufidently trusting that our tempo- 
rary loss is his eternal gain. 

Resolved, That we regard the removal from our midst of one so young, 
so generous, so noble hearted, cut down as he was in the vigor of manhood 
and in the full tide of a brilliant career, with the deepest sorrow and most 
poignant regret. 

Resolved, That in the removal from our cherished circle of Col. Tremain, 
not only does our Fraternity lose a most valuable member and earnest sup- 
porter, but the country has lost a bright ornament that shone with conspicu- 
ous lustre. 

Resolved, That we shall ever cherish his memory as a man of exalted 
character, and as a genorons and reliable friend, who had endeared himself 
to us all by his manly conduct and unwavering devotion to our mutual 
interests. 

Resolved, That to the afflicted family of the deceased we tender our most 
profound and heartfelt sympathies in this sore bereavement. 

Resolved, That our badges be draped in mourning for the requisite period, 
and that a copy of these resolutions be sent to the family of the deceased, 
and be published in the public journals. 

CHARLES C. BURNS, 
GEORGE E. PRITCIIETT, 

AUGUSTUS C. MEANS, 

Commiltee. 



52 MEMOIR. 



At a meeting of the resident members of the Theta Delta Chi 
Fraternit}", held on the 15th inst., at the city of Albany, on motion 
Major George Pomeroy, U. S. A,, was called to the Chair, and 
Clarence T. Jenkins was appointed Secretary. On motion of 
Tiios. Simons, the following preamble and resolutions were unani- 
mously adopted : 

Whereas, We have learned with the deepest regret of the death of our 
brother, Frederick L. Tremain, of wounds received in the discharge of 
his duty on the field of battle, and desiring to express our admiration of his 
brief but brilliant military career, our appreciation of the noble qualities of 
mind and heart which distinguished him as a companion and friend, and 
our heartfelt sympathy with those who are called upon to mourn his loss, in 
still nearer and dearer relations : 

Resolved, That it becomes our fraternity, being mindful of his worth to 
us in life, and of the bright example of his death, to add its tribute of 
respect and affection for the memory of our departed friend. It is well 
indeed for us that we have this consolation in our sorrow, that his life was not 
spent in vain, for though we cannot but feel the blow that has stricken him 
from our number, it is with mournful pride that we shall yet answer lor 
him, '• Dead on the field of honor." 

" Oh, fallen in manhood's fairest morn, 

We will remember "mid our sighs, 
He never yields his life too .soon 

For country and for right who dies." 
Resolved, therefore, That the badge of our fraternity be draped in mourn- 
ing for thirty days; that a copy of these resolutions be presented to the 
family of the deceased, and other copies bo furnished for publication and 
for transmission to the several chapters of our fraternity. 

GEORGE POMEROY, Chairman. 
Clarence T. Jenkins, Secretary. 



At a meeting of the members of Xl Charge of the Theta Delta 
Chi Fraternity, resident in Washington City, the following preamble 
and resolutions were unanimously adopted, viz : 

Whereas, It has pleased Almighty God in his infinite wisdom, to remove 
from us our beloved brother, Frederick Lyman Tremain, Lieut. Colonel 
of the 10th N. Y. Cavalry who fell mortally wounded, while gallantly rally- 
ing his men at Hatcher's Run, on Monday, February 6, 1865 ; therefore 

Be it resolved, That in the death of Colonel Tremain the country has lost 
a noble defender and gallant soldier, and this fraternity an honest and 



M E M I R. 53 



faithful member whose generous and genial nature endeared him to all his 
brethren, and while, with humble reverence, we bow before the mandates of 
an all-wise Providence, we can but deeply lament the loss wc have s\is- 
talned. 

Resolved, That while in this sudden and irretrievable calamity we recog- 
nize how cold and unavailing must be all human sympathy, we tender to 
his bereaved family our heartfelt condolence in this our common affliction, 
and trust that the remembrance of his noble deeds and gallant death may 
be permitted in some degree to soothe the intens'ty of our grief. 

Resolved, That the badge of our fraternity be draped in mourning for the 
customary period, and that a copy of these resolutions be forwarded to the 
family of the deceased. 

M. C. A DOOMS, Class of 18G2, 
P. C. GILBERT, Class of 1862, 
E. O. GRAVES, Class of 1864. 

Committee. 
Washington, D. C, Feb. 13, 1865. 



Washington, D. C, Feb. 16, 1865. 
Honored Sir : We have the honor to enclose herewith a copy of 
resolutions in regard to the death of your lamented son Frederick, 
adopted at a meeting of his brethern in the Xi Charire of the 
Theta Delta Chi Fraternity, resident in this city. We trust you 
will excuse this intrusion on your grief, when you remember that 
we were poor Fred's intimate friends, and at one time daily com- 
panions, and that the calamity which has cast so deep a gloom over 
your household has saddened many other hearts, bound to his by 
fraternal ties — less sacred only than those of relationship. Yet 
even at such a time as this, it gives us a sad pleasure to bear tes- 
timony to his many virtues, the gentleness, geniality and gene- 
rosity of a nature that seemed completely happy only when it had 
secured the complete happiness of those around it. We were most 
intimate with him in his college days and sadly recall him as a 
noble, amiable and light-hearted friend and companion, whose 
worst faults were an excess of generosity and boyish spirits, fail- 
ings that might truly be said to " lean to virtue's side." He was 
first in every enterprise of daring or merriment, and the life of 
every social gathering. Noble youth I True even in death to the 



54 MEMOIR. 



character of his life, falling foremost in the fray, where the blows 

fell fastest and the strife was hottest, he has gone on high to add 

another heroic spirit to the sainted band of freedom's martyrs ! 

With great respect, 

Your obedient servants, 

M. C. ADDOMS, 

E. 0. GRAVES. 
Hon. Lyman Tremain, 

Albany, N. Y. 



An extract from the proceedings of the Albany Soldiers' Relief 
Society : 

That besieging army lying at the gates of Richmond is but gathering its 
energies for anotlier desperate struggle for the occupancy of that city. "When 
the struggle conies, how broad will be the field of labor which will open to 
us ! Already the heavy shadow of that impending conflict has fallen in our 
midst, and that ardent young spirit, which went out from us so lately, 
instinct with life and hoi)e, comes biick to us to-day a dead hero, enshrined 
forever in his country's heart. 

Albany is indeed ricli in her historic roll of heroes; let her be rich also in 
her record of lliose humbler services of patriotism tliat are witliiu the reach 
of us all. 

hy order of the Executive Committee. 

Mrs. REUBEN E. FENTON, Pres't. 



The late Lieut. Colonel Tremain. 

General IIeadqitarters, State of New York, ) 
Adj. General's Office, Albany, Feb. IG, 18G5. J 

Special Orders, No. 62. 

In compliment to the high character and gallantry of Lieutenant Colonel 
Frederick L. Tremain, Tenth Regiment of Cavalry, New York State Vol- 
unteers, who died of a wound received in the late battle of Hatcher's Run, 
Va., His E.vcellency Governor Fenton, with his Staff, will attend the fune- 
ral of the deceased, to take place at St. Peter's Church, in this city, on the 
16th day of February, instant at 3 o'clock p. m. 

By order of the Commander-in-Chief. 

WM. IRVINE, Adjutant General. 



MEMOIR. 55 



General Orders, No. 1. 

Headquarters IOtii Regimknt, N. G. S. N. Y. ) 
Albany, February 15, 18G5. \ 

I. Commandants of Companies are hereby directed to assemble their 
commands at their respective Armories on Thursday, February IGth, at 
1^ o'clock p. M. 

II. The Commandants will report with their companies in Regulation 
Uniform and Overcoats to Lieut. E. H. Merrihew, Acting Adjutant, on 
Pearl street, opposite Regimental Headquarters, promptly at 2:45 o'clock, 
for the purpose of attending tlie funeral of the late gallant Lieutenant Col- 
onel Frederick L. Tremain, who so nobly devoted a life, bright with hope 
and full of promise, to the cause and service of our common countrj'. 

III. Lieut. Col. D. M. Woodhall will take command of the Parade. 

By order of 

Col. FRANK CHAMBERLAIN. 
E. H. Merrihew, Lieut, and Acting Adj't. 



EXPRKSSIOXS OF THR PUBLIC PRESS. 



From the Albany Evening Journal. 
Death of Lieut. Col. Frederick L. Trematn. 

Another of our noble youth has fallen a sacrifice to this " cruel 
war." Another household has been invaded, and other hearts 
have been made desolate. Lieut. Colonel Frederick L. Tre- 
MAIN died at City Point on Wednesday, of the wounds which he 
received in the advance upon H.itcher's Run, near Petersburg, on 
Sunday last. The lirst report of his wound foreshadowed this 
result, but a subsequent despatch gave hope that he might survive. 
This hope was not realized. After three days of suffering, his 
young life went out, and with it the brightest light of a once happy 
but now sad:lened family circle. We know that in such an hour 
of terrible sorrow, human sympathy, however heartfelt and sincere, 
can do but little toward assauging the bitterness of parental grief. 
But this sympathy is all that those who knew and loved the brave 
boy, can proffer those whose hearts have been crushed by this sad 
bereavement. They must look elsewhere for that " comfort where- 
with they are comforted," who recognize in every dispensation, 
the hand of One who " doeth all things well," and who alone can 
give the oil of joy for mourning, and the garment of praise for the 
spirit of heavyness." 

Col. Tremain went to the field in the fall of ISG'2, as Adjutant 
of the Seventh Volunteer Artillery, Not relishing the monotony 
and inactivity of garrison life — to which duty the regiment was 
assigned — he sought and obtained a transfer, and was detailed to 
Staff service in the field, with Gen, Gregg, in the cavali-y corps of 



58 M E M I R. 



Gen. Sheridan. And here he found abundant opportunity for 
the display of his high soldierly qualities. He was foremost in 
every battle in which that corps engaged, and which has rendered 
it and its heroic leaders famous in the annals of the war. He was 
in that ever memorable ride from the Rapidan to the James, dur- 
ing which a score of battles were fouglit, millions of the enemy's 
property destroyed, the outer fortifications of Eichmond entered, 
and prodigies of valor displayed by every member of the heroic 
band. On the James, he joined in most of the cavalry reconnoi- 
sances and raids which have passed into history as among the most 
dramatic of the war, and fell while engaged in driving back the 
Rebel force which attempted to check the resistless progress of our 
troops. 

Colonel Tremain was a young man to be admired and loved. He 
combined, with a noble presence, winning manners and attractive 
social qualities. As a soldier he was prompt and fearless. He was 
a brave rider, and coveted nothing so much as perilous adventure. 
He early attracted the attention of his superior officers by his manly 
bearing and gallant deeds, and earned his several promotions by 
his heroic achievements. 

It is only a few days since he left home, after a brief furlough, 
with his commission as Lieutenant Colonel of the Tenth Cavalry. 
He had not had time to formally enter upon his new duties when 
he fell. It is sad to follow to the tomb one so 3'oung, and whose 
future was so full of promise. But his memory will ever be grate- 
fully revered, and his name will live, tlirough all coming time, as 
that of one who gave his young life for his beloved country. 

Although the deceased had been cearly three years in the ser- 
vice, and had attained to the distinction of a Lieutenant Colonel, 
he was but a few months past twenty-one years of age. He was 
born in Greene county, and graduated at Geneva College in x862. 
His father. Judge Lyman Tremain, left for City Point last Mon- 
day evening, but he could not have reached that place in time to 
close the eyes of his brave boy. This will add to the poignancy of 
his sorrow, and intensify the sympathy which his fellow citizens 
feel for the family in this dark hour of their sad bereavement. 



MEMOIR. 69 



From the Atlas and Argus. 
Death of Lieut. Colonel Tremain. 

We, in common with all our citizens, were made sad by the 
announcement of the death of this brave officer. He was wounded 
while in the discharge of his dangerous duty in the advance upon 
Hatcher's Run, near Petersburg, last Sunday, and although an 
encouraging report had been sent on to his relatives and friends 
here, there was reason to fear from the first that it would prove 
fatal. 

Colonel Tremain joined the service in 1862, as Adjutant of the 
Seventh Volunteer Artillery, one of the best and largest Regiments 
sent from Albany. It was assigned to duty in the Forts near 
Washington, but in the course of a few months Colonel Tremain, 
anxious for a more active military life, sought and obtained a posi- 
tion on the Staff of G-eneral Gregg, in the cavalry corps of Major 
General Sheridan. Educated, young and chivalrous, he speedily 
won the confidence of his superiors, and promotion soon followed 
the development of the soldierly accomplishments which distin- 
guished him in the many battles in which he participated. No 
better evidence of his merits as a soldier need be cited than the 
fact that he earned the rank of Lieut, Colonel at the early age of 
twenty-one. The history of this war, participated in by so many 
of the youth of the country, and offering unprecedented opportu- 
nities for promotion, affords but few instances of one so young 
attaining this distinction. 

There is added another bright name to the long list of gallant 
young Albanians who have been lost in the war. 



From the Albany Morning Express. 
Death of Lieut. Colonel Tremain. 
We were pained to learn at a lato hour last evening of the death 
of Lieut. Colonel Frederick L. Tremain. The sad event occur- 
red at the City Point Hospital day before yesterday. Upon the 
first intelligence that he was wounded in the battle of last Monday, 
his father, Hon. Lyman Tremain, went on to see him, but he 



60 MEMOIR. 



luid only arrived at Washington when the sorrowful intelligence of 
death filled the cup of his anguish. The first report of the wound 
represented it as serious, but the hearts of the gallant young officer's 
friends liecame more buoyant when, a day later, more favorable 
intelligence was received, and now the fatal blow falls upon them 
with ajipalling eifect. 

Colonel Tremain was young in years to hold so high a position ; 
but though youthful in appearance he was distinguished for manly 
attributes. Entering the service as Adjutant of the 7th Artillery 
Regiment, he rose to the rank Avhich he held at his death. lie was 
kind, genial and brave, beloved by all who knew him, endeared 
alike to officers and men. Animated and vivacious, gifted Avith 
social virtues and a culture rare in one so younc", he was a delight- 
ful companion and a true friend. As a soldier, his rapid proniotion 
is the best evidence of his zeal and patriotic pride in the perform- 
ance of his duty. The bitterness of death is partially assauged by 
the consciousness tliat he nobly died in the service of his country. 
He acted honorably his part in that service, and has left it only to 
embark upon that illimitable sea on which 

Ships are drifting with their dead, 
To shores where all is dumb. 



From the Albany Knickerbocker. 
Death op Lieut. Colonel Tremain. 
The death of this young and gallant officer makes the fifth who 
had sei'ved on the staff of Colonel Morris, of the 7th Artillery, 
while he was in command of a brigade. Colonel Tremain went 
out as Adjutant of the 11.3th Regiment, which was afterwards 
changed to the 7th Artillery, and acted as Acting Assistant Adju- 
tant General on the staff of (Colonel Morris about eighteen months, 
Avhen he was promoted to Captain on the staff of General Davies, 
commanding a brigade of cavalry then under the gallant Kilpa- 
TRICK. He joined his brigade just in time to participate in the 
affair at Mine Run, in the latter part of November, 1863. This 
was the hardest and severest march the Army of the Potomac ever 
underwent. The cold was so intense that our pickets were frozen 



MEMOIR. 61 



on their posts, and for four days the officers scarcely tasted food. 
Colonel Tremain stood this hard task equal to an old veteran. 
He went through all the perils and glories of General Sheridan's 
cavalry raid which was nuide on Richmond last spring. Colonel 
TrEiMAIn participated in every fight and skirmish which the cav- 
alry took part in from the time he was assigned to the staff of 
General Dayies till he was killed. Last Decemher he was pro- 
moted to Lieutenant Colonel of the 10th New York Cavalry, and 
at the time he was wounded was in command of his regiment. No 
young man was more thoroughly posted or studied harder to 
acquaint himself in military knowledge than Colonel Tremain. He 
was at home in the saddle, and of all the perils of a soldier's life 
this Avas what he most coveted. As a soldier he was prompt and 
fearless, and in his death the cavalry loses an experienced, brave 
and skillful officer, and a large circle of relatives and friends are 
bereaved of one of whom they were justly proud. His funeral will 
take place to-morrow afternoon at 3 o'clock, from the residence of 
his father, on State street above the Capitol, on which occasion the 
remains will be escorted by the 10th Regiment, Colonel Cham- 
berlain. 



A Corrcspoiulent in tlie New York Times. 
Lieut. Colonel Tremain. 
Among the killed at the battle of Hatcher's Run, last week, was 
Frederick L. Tremain, eldest son of Hon. Lyman Tremain, 
of Albany, and at the time of his death Lieutenant (Jolonel of the 
Tenth New York Cavalry. He was born in Greene County, in 
this State, in June, 1843. His character as a boy was distin- 
guished by those qualities of generosity, firmness and courage that 
marked him as a man, and endeared him to all who knew him. 
After careful preparation at the school of JJr. Reed, at Geneva, 
in the fall of 18(30 he entered Hobart College, with the highest 
hopes and the highest ])rospects. There he remained until the 
summer of 1862, when, unable longer to resist the promptings of 
patriotism, he was made Adjutant of the Seventh Reginu-nt of 
New Y'ork Heavy Artillery. He accompanied the regiment to 



62 MEMOIR. 



Washington, where, much to his regret, it was detailed for the 
defences of that city. Although constantly engaged in his duties 
as Adjutant, and in the acquisition of military knowledge, Colonel 
Tremain was ever eager for active service in the field. At last, 
in September, 1863, he was appointed by the President Assistant 
Adjutant General, with the rank of Captain, with orders to report 
to General Dayies, of the cavalry, of the Potomac Army. He 
was assigned to the staff of that officer, then commanding a brigade 
in Kilpatrick's division. He was transferred to the staff of the 
First Brigade, Second Divison, then under the command of Colonel 
Taylor, after and now by General Davies. He remained on 
this staff", distinguished himself by his bravery in many engage- 
ments, by the courtesy of his manner, and the prompt and intelli- 
gent discharge of every duty until December last, when he was 
commissioned as Lieutenant Colonel of the Tenth New York Cav- 
alry. He ever won the affectionate regard, as he always secured 
the respect of his superior officers, and the warm friendship of his 
companions in arms. 

In the battle of Feb. G, at Hatcher's Run, the command of his 
regiment had just fallen to him, when he was struck by a musket 
ball in the hip. This wound, though not considered serious at 
first, resulted in his death on the night of the following Wednesday. 
Thus lived and died one of our youngest and bravest officers. At 
school, at college, in all the different positions he occupied in the 
army, his abilities commanded respect, his kind and genial quali- 
ties won him love. He was eminent for the gentleness and purity 
of his character, his bravery in action, his devotion to his country's 
liberties, and that Union for which he so freely gave his young and 
noble life. 

He leaves a bereaved family, whose pride he so justly was, and 
many sorrowing friends, to mourn his loss, whose consolation it 
will be, when time has assuaged the pangs of separation from one 
so loved, that he fell in the discharge of the highest, noblest duty 
of man, battling for his country and life. 



" How sleep the brave who sink to rest, 
By all their country's wishes blest ! 



MEMOIR. 63 



"When Spring, with dewy fingers cold, 
Returns to deck their hallowed mould, 
She there shall dress a sweeter sod 
Than fancy's feet have ever trod. 
By fairy hands their knell is rung; 
By forms unseen their dirge is sung; 
There Honor conies a pilgrim gray, 
To bless the turf that wraps their clay; 
And freedom shall awhile repair. 
To dwell a weeping hermit there !" 



From the New York Tribune. 
Lieutenant Colonel Tremain, of the lOth New York Cavalry, 
and sou of the Hon. Lyman Tremain, of Albany, was among the 
slain at the battle of Hatcher's Run. Colonel Tremain was born 
in Greene County, New York, in June, 1843 ; entered Hobart 
College in the fall of 1860, and remained till the summer of 18G2, 
when unable longer to resist the calls of patriotism, he entered the 
army as Adjutant of the 7th New York Heavy Artillery. He 
served with distinction in the defenses of Washington, and subse- 
quently as Assistant Adjutant General, with the rank of Captain, 
on the staff of General Davies of the cavalry in Kilpatrick'.s 
Division of the Potomac Army. In this position he distinguished 
himself by his bravery and the prompt and intelligent discharge of 
his duties. In December last he was commissioned Lieutenant 
Colonel of the 10th New York Cavalry, in the command of which 
regiment he Avas wounded at Hatcher's Fain in the battle of Feb- 
ruary 6, and died on the following Wednesday. Colonel Tremain 
was distinguished for an unusual degree of generosity, firmness 
and courage, great ability and entire devotion to the cause of his 
country. His bereaved family and very many attached friends 
will long cherish his memory with affectionate sorrow. 



From the New York Times. 
Lieutenant Colonel FREPERinc L. Tremain, of the Tenth 
Cavalry, and son of Judge Tremain, of Albany, badly wounded 
before Petersburgh on Monday, died on Wednesday, Colonel 



TuEMAiN joined the service in 1862, as Adjutant of the Seventh 
Volunteer Artillery, one of the best and largest regiments sent 
from Albany. It was assigned to duty in the forts near Wash- 
ington, but in the course of a few months, Colonel Tremain, anx- 
ious for a more active military life, sought and obtained a position 
on the staff of General Gregcj, in the cavalry corps of Major Gen- 
eral Sheridan. He speedily won the confidence of his superiors, 
and promotion soon followed the development of the soldierlv accom- 
plishments which distinguished him in the many battles in which 
he participated. No better evidence of his merits as a soldier need 
be cited than the fact that he had earned the rank of Lieutenant 
Colonel at the early age of twenty-one. 



From the Albany Standard &. Statesman. 
Funeral of Lieutenant Colonel Tre.main. 
The funeral of Lieutenant Colonel TremAin will take place 
from his father's residence, in State street, to-morrow afternoon. 
The remains will be escorted by the 10th Regiment, Colonel Cham- 
berlain. Lieutenant Colonel Tremain died from the effects of 
a wound received while gallantly leading his regiment at the late 
battle at Hatcher's Run. Colonel Tremain entered the service 
as Adjutant. From this position he advanced to the Lieutenant 
Colonelcy in about two years. As an officer, he was brave, active 
and enterprising. As a gentleman, he was courteous and obliging. 
No officer in the service was more admired. No death in the ser- 
vice will be more regretted. He lived a patriot and died a hero. 
We condole with his parents in their great affliction. 

From the Catskill Democratic Journal. 
Death of Colonel Frederick L. Tremain. 
With deep regret we learn the death of this young and patriotic 
soldier. Colonel Tremain was but a few weeks since promoted 
to his present rank for gallant and meritorious conduct in battle. 
He received his death wound at the battle before Petersburg last 
week. He Avas a brilliant, fearless and dashing officer, and met 
his death like a hero, fighting for his country. He had but just 



MEMOIR. 65 



arrived at the years of manhood, although holding the high rank 
of Lieutenant Colonel of his regiment, a position he had won by his 
brave conduct. Colonel Tremain was born in Durham, in this 
county, and a son of the Hon. Lyman Tremain, now of Albany. 
The terrible blow will fall with crushing weight upon his fond and 
devoted parents. 



From the Catskill Examiner. 
Death of Lieut. Colonel Tremain. 
Among the killed at the late battle of Hatcher's Run, was 
Frederick L. Tremain, son of Hon. Lyman Tremain, of Al- 
bany. He w^as wounded in the hip by a musket ball, while in 
command of the Tenth New York Cavalry, and though the wound 
at first was not considered dangerous, it resulted fatally on Wed- 
nesday the 8th inst. Colonel Tremain was extremely young for 
one occupying his position, though he displayed in the discharge 
of his duties the calm judgment and courage of a veteran soldier. 
He was born in this county in 184.3, and in his early youth gave 
abundant evidence of the noble qualities which distinguished him 
as a man, and procured for him the rapid military advancement 
which was due to his superior intelligence, courage and generosity. 
In all his different relations through life, from the district sc.hool 
to the college and the army, he won the esteem and love of all 
with whom he was associated. He was a brave and accomplished 
officer, and his devotion to his country, for which he freely gave 
his young life, will secure his name a place among those of the 
heroes who will be hereafter most honored for their valor, their 
patriotism, and their public services. 



From the Geneva Gazette. 

Obituary. 

It is our sad duty to record the death of Lieutenant Colonel 

Frederick L. Tremain, who died at City Point hospital from 

the effects of a wound by a musket ball, received at the battle of 

Hatcher's Run on Wednesday of last week. Mr. Tremain, it 

9 



66 MEMOIR. 



will be remembered, was a student at Hobart College, a member of 
tlie class of 1864, and at the termination of his Sophomore year 
left college to sustain the honor of the nation, and assert her 
authority at the hazard of his own life, which we see now resulting 
so fatally. Mr. Tremain entered the army as an Adjutant of an 
Albany regiment, from which position he was soon promoted to 
Assistant Adjutant General, with the rank of Captain on General 
Davies staff. Having shown prominent valor and firmness, he 
was this winter promoted to Lieutenant Colonel of the 10th New 
York State Cavalry. We can imagine how belonged for an oppor- 
tunity to show his regiment that he, a young man of twenty-two 
years of age, would be a courageous leader, and when occasion 
required, how he plunged madly into the fearful scene of carnage, 
riding at the head of his battalion ; how with upraised sword and 
the command "charge" upon his lips, he fell. The fatal ball 
lodged in his thigh, and after lingei-ing till the following Wednes- 
day, he died. It hardly seems possible that it can be a reality ; 
and only when we think that the " place which once knew him 
shall know him again no more" — when we miss his genial face and 
generous heart, his brilliant vivacity and noble spirit — do we con- 
vince ourselves of the truth, and submissively yield to the wisdom 
of the Almighty. Farewell, thou noble son of a noble country ! 
Where the darkness of the grave enshrouds him, there let him 
sleep. The earth is his mother, and the soil of Columbia his tomb. 



Army correspondence of tlie Associated Press. 
Lieutenant Colonel Tremain, wrongly reported as Major Tre- 
MAiNE of General Grant's staff, and of the Tenth New York 
Cavalry, who was badly wounded in the engagement of Monday, 
died last evening. He was a gallant officer, and much respected 
and loved by his comrades in the service. 



From the Albany Knickerbocker. 

Honor to the Dead. 

On the morning of the 10th inst., the officers of the 1st brigade 

of the 2d cavalry division, in the Army of the Potomac, held a 

meeting relative to the death of Lieutenant Colonel Frederick 



L. Tremain. a series of resolutions to the memory of this young 
and gallant officer were adopted. They paid a proper tribute to 
the purity of his life and character, to his unselfish patriotism, 
courteous bearing, manly courage and earnestness of purpose, all 
of which gave promise of a bright future for this much lamented 
young man. His loss is deeply mourned by his brethren in arms. 



From the Journal and other Albany Papers. 

Funeral Ceremonies of the late Lieutenant Colonel 

Frederick L. Tremain. 

One of the most imposing funerals that has yet taken place in 
our city was that of Lieutenant Colonel Frederick L. Tremain, 
which took place yeterday afternoon. After the services had been 
performed at the residence of his father, Lyman Tremain, in 
State street, the corpse was conveyed to St. Peter's Church under 
the escort of the Zouave Cadets, to the tap of the muffled drum, 
followed by the relatives of the deceased. Opon reaching this 
edifice the corpse was conveyed by the following pall bearers : 
Lieut. Colonel Clarence Corning, Lieut. Colonel William 
Corning, Lieut. Colonel Charles M. Strong, Major Rufus 
W. Peckham, Jr., Major Dudley Olcott, Major George L. 
Pomeroy, Messrs. Billings P. Learned, Jr., Bradley Mar- 
tin, Edw. Hun, Hamilton Van Vechten, Andrew Greene, 
Amasa J. Parker, Jr., M. H. Avery and Wm. R. Vernam. 
Reaching the porch, they were met by the Rector and Assistant 
Rector, Rev. Messrs. Wilson and Tatlock, and proceeding up 
the aisle, the Rector read the introductory sentences as given in the 
order for the burial of the dead. 

The edifice was thronged and many an eye was dimmed with 
tears as the lifeless remains of this young officer were borne up the 
broad aisle and placed in front of the chancel. It was a solemn 
spectacle, and the plaintive notes of the deep-toned organ, as they 
blended with the voice of the Rector, penetrated the heart of the 
most careless observer. This was followed by the choir chanting 
in response the 30th and 90th Psalms. The Rev. Mr. Tatlock 
read a portion of the 15th chapter of 1st Corinthians, and the con- 



68 MEMOIR. 



eluding services were performed by the Rev. Mr. Wilson. The 
services in the church being concluded, the corpse was received 
by the 10th Regiment N. Y. S. N. G., under command of Lieut. 
Colonel WooDHULL, and conveyed to the cemetery. 

The 10th Regiment, preceded by Schreiber's Band, acted as 
escort, and the Zouaves as a guard of honor. The coffin was cov- 
ered with roses, and behind the hearse the horse of the deceased, 
with all his accoutrements reversed, was led by a groom. The 
cortege was large and imposing. Among those present, and as 
military mourner, was Colonel Avert, who was in command of 
the reo-iment when young Tremain fell. The Rectors of St. Peter's 
accompanied the remains to the burial ground, where they per- 
formed the last sad rites over the body of the lamented young 
soldier. 



LETTERS. 



OxMiTTiNG numerous letters from private citizens full of kind 
and feeling tributes, I select a few written by military officers 
whose position as military men brought them into close and inti- 
mate relations with the deceased. 

War Department, Feb. 10, 1865. 
My Dear Sir : I am unable to tell how deeply my heart sym- 
pathises with you and Mrs. TrEMAIN in the great calamity that 
has fallen upon yOu in the death of your son. That he has fallen 
upon the field of battle, fighting gallantly for his country, and 
given his life as a sacrifice for national existence, may hereafter be 
some consolation when time has embalmed his memory and assuaged 
the present agony of bereavement. I pray you, my dear friend, 
accept the assurance of my comraisseration, and I trust that you 
will find support and comfort from that Divine Providence that has 
called your gallant son from the field of battle to a haven of rest. 
Yours, truly, 

EDWIN M. STANTON. 
Hon. L. Tremain. 



Headquarters 2d Cav. Division, ) 
Army of the Potomac, March 1, 1865, \ 

Hon. Lyman Tremain, 

My Dear Sir : I take the first opportunity of being able to use 
my pen to express to you my sincere sympathy on the great loss 
you have sustained in the death of your gallant son, Lieutenant 
Colonel Tremain. 



TO MEMOIR. 



I know that I can say nothing that -will alleviate the suffering 
caused by a blow such as that you have sustained, but while you 
mourn his loss it will be at least some consolation to know that he 
fell fighting for the good cause, and that his name will be ever 
remembered among those of the gallant men who have given up 
all, even to life itself, for the honor and safety of the country. As 
a brave and gallant officer, one who already in his extreme youth 
had won high military honors, and had before him a brilliant career 
of hope and promise, his early death is deeply and sincerely regret- 
ted by all his fellow officers and by none more than myself. For 
a long period he had served upon my staff, and had always deserved 
and obtained high praise for his knowledge of duty, his cheerfulness 
and untiring assiduity and the conspicuous gallantry he had dis- 
played upon every battle field. When he was promoted to a higher 
position I regretted much that our intimate personal relations should 
be disturbed, but I was well aware of his high deserving and knew 
that his promotion was but a just recognition of his many good 
qualities. 

During the short period he served Avith his regiment he had 
deserved the highest praise, and I looked upon his future advance- 
ment as secure and saw that if his life should be spared he had 
within his reach the highest honors of the profession of arms. 

This, however, was not to be, and on the 6th of February, while 
leading his regiment with gallantry and judgment surpassed by 
none, he fell before the fate that has already cut off so many of our 
best and bravest men. 

While we mourn his loss we must remember that his death was 
as glorious as his life had been distinguished. 

In the vicissitudes of war should it be my fate to fall I could 
ask no death more distinguished than his ; to fall at the crowning 
point of a success to which his gallantry and good conduct had 
greatly assisted, and to know that his farewell from earth and wel- 
come above would be the same — "Well done thou good and faith- 
ful servant." 

With the most sincere regards and the assurance of my heartfelt 
sympathy in your affliction, believe me 

Very truly yours, H. E. DAVIES, Jr., Brig. Gen. 



MEMOIR. 71 



Headquarters, 10th N. Y. Cavalry, 
Before Petersburg, Va., March 11, 18G5. 

My Dear Sir : Although more than a month has elapsed since 
the battle of Hatcher's Run, the last engagement in which your son, 
our gallant associate, participated, and in which his young life was 
laid upon the altar of his country, we, his comrades, are but the 
more frequently reminded of the vacant place in our little circle. 
Though his connexion with the regiment had been recent, yet, as 
Assistant Adjutant General of the Brigade, we had met him in 
social intercourse, and also marked his conspicuous bravery on the 
field. From the highest to the lowest he received an earnest wel- 
come, not as a stranger, but as one who had been identified with 
us, of whose name and fame we were proud, and whose reputation 
was hereafter to belong more exclusively to us as a regiment. His 
honorable and unselfish ambition was particularly gratified that his 
promotion had been effected without detriment to the individual 
interests of any of our officers, and which was enhanced by his pre- 
vious refusal of a proffered appointment, which if accepted would 
have compelled the overslaugh of a competent and deserving officer. 

He came among us with an earnest intention to contribute the 
whole of his ability and energy towards improving the morale and 
effectiveness of the organization with Avhich he had become identified. 
At times I could not refrain from smiling at the very earnest man- 
ner in which he endeavored to impress upon me the fact of his 
being young, — accustomed to habits of study and application ; — his 
expressions of desire to share in the responsibility of command, 
and that it would be but necessary to merely indicate any duty 
which it were desirable that he should execute. 

A few days before the movement a system of evening recitations 
of the officers in Tactics and the Regulations had been instituted 
under his charge. To this he devoted himself in the same earnest 
and conscientious manner in which he performed every task. 
Among other lessons was that of accjuiring a new manual for the 
Carbine, just introduced into the division. In this, to the surprise 
of all, he became remarkably proficient after a few hours practice, 
his previous experience as executive officer of the Brigade having 
led me to imagine that he would be found wanting in the practice 



72 MEMOIR. 



necessary to an expert manipulation of the piece, but to this as all 
other duties of his profession, he had devoted a painstaking attention. 
There was no trait of Lieutenant Colonel Tremain's n'ilitary 
character naore prominent than an earnest purpose to contribute 
his every effort towards the success of our cause, and which was 
evinced on trifling occasions as well as in the crisis of an engage- 
ment. On the morning of our first days march, after a sleepless 
night, owing to the lad condition of the roads, wagons and ambu- 
lance were continually being mired, thus delaying the column. 
Although not under his charge he labored assiduously in the mud 
and water, and when extricated, made sport of the plight in which 
he found himself, with the consoling remark " That he had earned 
his pay for that day at least." 

We were preparing our breakfast on the morning of the 6th, 
when the engagement suddenly opened, he immediately preferring 
the request to be allowed the post of danger in command of the 
skirmish line. Knowing his thoughts, I requested him not to 
unnecessarily expose himself, with the reminder : that " The 
Tenth " had too often seen him under fire to require needless 
evidence of his bravery in this his first battle as their Lieutenant 
Colonel. Our regiment, at first held in reserve, was afterward 
moved forward upon the line, soon after which, owing to the wound 
received by General Davies, I was notified that the command of 
the brigade had fallen to myself. I then despatched a staff- officer 
to apprise Colonel Tremain of his being in command of the regi- 
ment, and while receiving the message he was struck by a Minnie 
ball, and a moment afterward passed me, supported by two men. 
I shall never forget the pale face, but cheery voice which replied to 
my anxious inquiry regarding his injury : " That it felt rather deep, 
and that the blood was running down into his boots." 

I could not then realize that it was the last time in life that I 
was to look upon the face of one who had become near and dear to 
me, and whose irreparable loss was henceforth to be mourned by an 
entire regiment. 

We should be only too happy to contribute in any way to assuage 
your deep grief, but in such afiflictiou, words are very, very empty ; 



MEMOIR. 73 



and in enumerating tlic nohle, manly characteristics of tlie lost one, 
and while we look forward to the future, wo are but reminded of 
its brilliant prospect, had he but been spared for its development. 
Yours, with sincere sympathy, 

M. PI. AVERY, 
Hon. Lyman Tremain, Col. 10th N. Y. Cavalry. 

Albany, N. Y. 



Headquaiitkrs 11th U. S. Infantry, ) 

In TitE Field, near Citv Point, Va., Feb. 10, 18G5. I 

My Dear Judge : It becomes your duty to bear with resifrnation 
the sorrows incident to this Rebellion, now drawing rapidly to a 
close. Your son expired on the 8th inst., the particulars of which 
have already been communicated ; but I thought my brief note 
might not be unacceptable, as expressive of my regret, and in sym- 
pathy with your afflictions. He received his death wound on the 
field, at the head of his troops, on the 6th inst., at Hatcher's Run, 
in one of the sharpest conflicts of the war. Having appointed him 
Adjutant of the Seventh New York Volunteer Artillery, of which 
I had been designated as Colonel, I had followed him with inter- 
est, in and out of the field, in the belief that his extreme youth 
would ripen into an early manhood of usefulness and distinction. 
In the capacity of Adjutant, and in the duties of an Assistant 
Adiutant-General, and in his last commission as Lieutenant Col- 
onel of the 10th New York Volunteer Cavalry, he has fulfilled the 
expectations of his friends, and left a proud record for his family. 
Always cheerful and buovant in the midst of trials and dangers, lie 
imparted to his companions his untiring energy, and won from his 
followers their confidence and esteem. It has been gratifying to 
me to hear the praise bestowed by officers of rank for his con- 
duct in the action on the 0th inst., and the regrets that tlie service 
should be so soon deprived of one so distinguished for devotion to 
the cause. His blade was as keen and as bright as his principles, 
and in his fall there is a brilliant example, as well as an instruc- 
tive lesson to his countrymen. You may sorrow while the loss 
bears heavily and freshly upon your household ; but, in the future, 
10 



74 MEMOIR. 



you will find ample reward in the conviction that he actively parti- 
cipated in the restoration, as well as the promotion of our country. 
I am, very truly, your friend and obedient servant, 

JOHN T. SPRAGUE, 

Hon. Lyman Trematn, Lieut.-Colonel U. S. A. 

Albany, N. Y. 



Albany, February 10, 1865. 

My Dear Sir : I know that, at this time, no words of mine can 
mitigate the sorrow of the sad bereavment which has overshadowed 
you ; yet I feel that I should do myself injustice — should do injus- 
tice to the uninterrupted and close friendship which always 
existed between myself and your dear son — should I refrain from 
writing to you, or fail to give expression to my regard for him as a 
man, an officer and a friend. 

We entered the service together in July, 1862, under the call of 
Governor Morgan, which provided that the Adjutant and the 
Surgeon of the regiment should be mustered into the service prior 
to the enlistment of the men, and it thus happened that we spent 
nearly a month together, the only officers of the regiment. We 
were constantly associated during his service as Regimental Adju- 
tant, and when he was assigned to duty on the Brigade Staff as 
Assistant Adjutant General, it was my good fortune to be still 
with him, being Surgeon-in-chief of the Brigade. When subse- 
quently he entered the Adjutant General's Department, and was 
assigned to duty on General Davies staff, I met him often. I 
feel, therefore, that as a man and as a military officer I knew him 
well. 

There is, besides, another reason which impels me to write. Of 
the regimental staff which left Albany in the 113th regiment, and 
participated in the sanguinary campaign of last year, I am the only 
surviving member. This is true also, with one exception, of the 
brigade staff, on which we served together. Death has claimed them 
all. Morris, Orr, Springsteed — how tenderly and eloquently 
would they have written ! Alas ! that we should have only the 
silent eloquence of mingled blood and united deaths in our coun- 
try's common cause, of friends so noble, brave and true. 



MEMOIR. 75 



I well remember the favorable impression he produced by the 
earnestness with which he entered on his duties as Adjutant of the 
regiment, the facility with which he mastered the details of his new 
position, and the promptness and unwearied diligence with which 
he met the numerous demands made on him in enrolling and mus- 
tering the regiment — an impression but deepened when, our organ- 
ization completed, on his young shoulders rested the responsibility 
of duties so new, so various, and so important. And when, subse- 
quently, Colonel Morris appointed him Assistant Adjutant Gen- 
eral of his brigade, his new and higher duties were as readily mas- 
tered and as satisfactorily filled. The discrimination and judg- 
ment he expressed on the various questions submitted to him, and 
the clear, concise and forcible statement of the matters embraced 
in his reports, bear honorable testimony to the strength of his 
understanding, and the exactness of his culture. 

But his intimate and comprehensive acquaintance with military 
duty was not the only nor the chief source of his popularity. His 
personal qualities endeared him alike to officers and men. Above 
all petty jealousies — honorable, generous, fair-minded — he was 
sought as a counsellor and trusted as a friend. Universally popu- 
lar, his departure from our command was as universally regretted. 

And when, in the hour of battle, his coolness, his decision and 
his daring shone out above all these qualities ; although he no 
longer belonged to our regiment, yet his success was our own, and 
we shared every honor with him. 

But his work is done. On the line nearest the enemy he gave 
his young life for his country. And no more noble sacrifice has 
Albany laid on the altar of her patriotism. 

I am sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant. 

To Hon. L. Tremain, JAS. E. POMFRET. 

Albany, N. Y. 



Camp First Pennsylvania Veteran Cavalrt, 
Near Petersburg, Va., March 8, 1865. 

Hon. Lyman Tremain, Albany, N. Y. : 

My Dear Sir : I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of 

your letter of the 2d inst., asking for dates and incidents of the 



military history of your son, the hite gallant Lieutenant-Colonel 
F. L. TiiEMAiN, 10th New York Cavalry. 

It will afford me much pleasure, so far as I am able, to furnish 
you with any information relative to the short, but brilliant carper 
of one so brave and so heroic, cut down in his early manhood, and 
who has so patriotically offered his young blood a sacrifice ta coun- 
try and to liberty. 

I was intimately associated, by the closest ties of friendship, 
with Colonel Tr!emain, while on the brigade staff, and I am happy 
to say that I have always found him, in every respect, a true 
American soldier, willing to do and dare anything for the good 
of the cause and the service. Cool, brave, and self-reliant in 
action — social, hopeful and cheerful in camp and bivouac — he was 
a model soldier, and an accomplished gentleman. Ever prompt, 
earnest, active and soldierly, he stood high in the estimation of his 
brother officers of the First Brigade, for gallantry and heroism on 
the field of battle. 

The following are the battles and skirmishes in which Colonel 
Tremain took part, and was actively engaged : 

BATTLES. 

Todd's Tavern, May 5 and 6, 1864. 

Childsburg, " 9 

Richmond Heights,. " 12 " 

Haws' Shop, " 28 

Cold Harbor, June 1 

Barker's Mills, " 2 

Trevillian Station, " 12 

White House, " 21 " 

St. Mary's Church, " 24 

Malvern Hill, July 28 

Lee's Mills, " 31 

Gravel Hill, August 14 " 

Ream's Station, " 25 " 

Davis' Farm, October 1 " 

Hatcher's Run, " 26 

Stony Creek, November 27 " 

Bellfield, Weldon Railroad,. . December 9 " 

Dabney's Mills, February " 



SKIRMISHES. 

AsMand, IMay 10, 1SG4. 

Ream's Station, July 15, 18(34. 

Gravel Hill, August 16 and 17, 1864. 

Yellow House, Weldon llailroad, August 19, 1864. 

Ream's Station, AVoldon Railroad, Aug. 21, 22, 23, 1864. 

Garrett's Station, Weldon Railroad, December 10, 1864. 

INCIDENTS. 

At Todd's Tavern lie distinguished himself h\ charging at the 
head of a column on the advancing enemy, penetrating their lines, 
and cutting his way back through them again. 

At the battle of Haws' Shop, one of the hardest fought and most 
severely contested actions in which the Cavalry Corps has been 
engaged, he showed great heroism in carrying ammunition on his 
horse to the skirmish line, under a heavy fire. 

He displayed signal bravery at the battle of St. Mary's Church, 
June 24th, in passing beyond and between the opposing lines, 
while acting in the discharge of his duty as a staff- officer. 

At the battle of Davis' Farm, October 1st, the Brigade was 
attacked by more than double its number of the enemy, and the 
line beginning to waver under the pressure, he seized a battle-flag, 
and waving it over his head, rode along the battle-line, reassuring 
the troops, by his fearless gallantry and undaunted bravery, amid 
a withering fire. 

At the battle of Hatcher's Run, Oct. 26th, he resolutely stood 
at his post, vmder a very heavy artillery fire, cheering and encour- 
aging the men by his presence and example. 

At Dabney's Mills he fell nobly in the discharge of his duties, 
meeting a soldier's glorious death, as became his fervent zeal, his 
generous patriotism, and heroic character, lirquiescat in pace, 
and may the grass grow green above his early grave. 

With many kind wishes to yourself and family, and my deep 
sympathy in your bereavement, 

I remain, 30ur obedient servant, 

H. S. THOMAS, 
Major Commanding 1st Penn. Yet. Cavalry. 



78 MEMOIR. 



Headquarters Army of the Potomac, ) 
February 14, 1865. \ 

My Dear Sir : It is with the most heartfelt sympathy in your 
great bereavement that I undertake a reply to your note of the 
10th inst. Fred was like a brother to me — the dearest friend I 
had in the army ; my heart is loaded with grief as I think that he 
has gone. 

Upon hearing that Fred had returned from home, I rode over to 
his regiment, which was then near Hatcher's Run, and found him 
about taking lunch, which he shared with me ; and we had a long 
talk of mutual friends. Shortly after we separated, the cavalry 
were ordered to advance, in conjunction with the infantry, when 
your son was wounded. The immediate particulars of his fall I 
presume you have heard from Colonel Avery. As soon as I heard 
that he was wounded, I obtained permission to go to the hospital, 
where 1 found him upon a comfortable bed in very good spirits : 
his wound had not been examined thoroughly, and the surgeons 
were unable to state whether it was of a dangerous character. 
Fred would not listen at first to my suggestion to telegraph to 
you, but finally thought better of it, whereupon I forwarded my 
first dispatch. Dr. Page, the Acting Medical Director of the army, 
examined the wound, and informed me that he did not consider it 
dangerous, although it would undoubtedly prove a very painful 
one. Upon his statement I immediately telegraphed you again to 
this efi'ect. The next intelligence we received here was of his 
death. My friend. Dr. AscHE, attended him at the City Point 
Hospital. I inclose his letter, giving particulars of the immediate 
causes of the unexpected end. Had I had the slightest intimation 
that there was danger of the injury proving fatal, I should have 
spared no pains to have been with him. Major Tremain took 
charge of his efi'ects. and was granted leave of absence to accom- 
pany the body home. If there is anything left undone here, I 
shall consider it a favor for you to commission me to execute it. 
In closing permit me to renew the assurances of my sympathy ; his 
many friends here will long remember his beloved form, and miss 
him at the social gathering, where he was the life and soul of the 



MEMOIR. 79 



pai-ty. Brave, gallant, generous, he offered up his young life upon 
his country's shrine — he died a soldier's death. 

•* Green grow the grass above thee friend of my youthful days, 
>ione knew thee but to love thee, nor named thee but to praise." 

Very sincerely yours, 

CHARLES E. PEASE. 
Hon. Lyman Tremain. 



Headquarters, Ist Division 2d Army Corps, } 

In Field, near Peteksburgh, Va., Feb. 10, 18G5. ) 

Hon. Lyman Tremain, Albany, N. Y. : 

Sir : From a letter received last night I was pained to learn of 
the death of your son Fred., at the same time my warmest friend. 
I was aware of his being wounded, as I was on the field at the 
time, but was told it was a slight one. I could not find him then 
to see him, and came back here, intending to go to the depot and 
wait his arrival, but on my arrival I was immediately sent back to 
the left with a regiment to be put in an important position. On 
my return I found he had gone to City Point. I then tried to get 
a pass there, but could not, owing to the movement. I am sorely 
grieved to hear of his sudden death. With him I first entered the 
service, and with him my relations were always of the most friendly, 
almost brotherly character, and now to think of his death almost 
unmans me. His loss will be deeply felt in the 7th N. Y. Artillery, 
but none more deeply than yourself. Permit me to extend to 
yourself and family my sincere and heartfelt sympathy in your 
great and sorrowful affliction. I trust that the knowledge of his 
having died in the faithful discharge of his duty, nobl}' fighting for 
his country, will tend to soothe your wounded spirits and relieve 
your grief of its bitterness. I, for my part, will never place a 
battery, brigade or regiment in position to repel or make an attack 
without thinking of Fred. I saw Fred, the Saturday afternoon 
before his death, as he came up to see me. He said he was going 
to write you, and also that you expected to come down. I told him 
I expected to go home soon, and he desired me to call on you and 



80 MEMOIR. 



relate the interview. I cannot but mourn the loss of such a friend 
and desire to extend my sympathies. Trusting you may not mourn 
as one without hope, but that you may be comforted, 

I am, with great respect, your obedient servant,- 

JOHN S. McEWAN, 
Captain and Judge Advocate, 1st Division. 



Headqiarteks 3d Brigade 1st Division, ) 
5th Corps, Va., Feb. 17, 18G5. ^ 
Hon. Lyman Tremain : 

Dear Sir : That " death loves a shining mark," has never, in the 
progress of this war, been more painfully manifested than in the 
death of your son Fred. A better and braver officer, and one 
more respected and loved by all his associates in the army, never 
drew sword in behalf of the country in whose nol le defence he has 
so gallantly fallin. INlourning hearts here mingle tears of regret 
and condolence with mourning hearts at home — at that fireside 
where he was so loved — at that home of which he was a proud 
ornament. He fell in battle — fell as a true soldier would wish to 
fall. I know this is some consolation to you all ; but never can 
tlic clouds of sorrow be wholly dispelled, and in the long coming- 
years of the future there will be the vacant chair, and his manly 
form will be missed. I loved him as a brother, as did all whose 
pleasure and pride it was to enjoy his friendship and intimacy. I 
nujurn him as a brother, as do all who knew him, for none knew 
him but to love him. I wish it was in my power (but it is not,) to 
write or say something that could lighten this great affliction that 
has fallen on your household, and lessen your grief for this irrepar- 
able loss of the best and purest of sons, and most affectionate of 
brothers. 

The first news that reached me of Fred's being wounded was 
that it was not mortal ; next came the sad intelligence of his death. 
I immediately made inquiries as to the care of the body, with a 
view to having it embalmed and forward it to you, with the inten- 
tion of accompanying it home ; but in this I had been anticipated. 
There is nothing I would not have have done for him living — there 
is nothing I would have left undone for him dead, that could lessen 
the grief of yourself and your household. 



MEMOIR. 81 



He has gone from 3^011 and us ; you never can cease to mourn 
him ; we never shall look on his like again. 

Please accept these few lines as a slight assurance of my heart- 
ful sympathy for you and your family in this your great and trying 
bereavement. 

I have not the power or heart to say more. 

Very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

GEORGE H. WEIR. 



Headquartrrs 6th Regiment New York Artillery, } 
Defences of Bermuda Hundred, Va., Feb. 21st, 1885. ^ 

Hon. Lyman Trejiain : 

Dear Sir : A few days since I heard, with great regret, of the 
death of your son, Lieutenant-Colonel Tremain, in the recent 
engagement at Hatcher's Run. Although my acquaintance with 
him was not intimate, yet the few occasions on which I met him 
since he entered the service were sufficient to impress me with the 
fact that he was earnest and sincere, and performed his duties in a 
manner equally creditable to his talents and conscience. I not 
unfrequently heard of him, and from my acquaintance with yourself, 
I naturally was much interested in him, as well as because I heard 
nothing but good reports of him, whether from officers or men. 
Amiable, genial and intelligent, he was a favorite with all who 
knew him, and no less was he respected as a gallant officer than 
admired as a pleasant companion. His death occasioned many 
sad hearts in the array, where his memory will long live as that of 
a good man and a true soldier who died for his country. 

I beg to offer to you and your family my most sincere sympathy 
in your great affliction. 

I am, with great respect, yours sincerely, 

CHAS. H. PORTER. 



Headquarters 89th New York Vol. Infantry. 
In the Field, Va., Feb. 16th, 18G5. 

My dear Uncle : By the paper of the i3th inst., which reached 

us to day, I learned of your great affliction, and hesitate to write; 

well knowing how futile and ineffectual will prove any poor words 

11 



82 MEMOIR. 



which I may offer to alleviate the sorrow which this sad blow must 
cause. I cannot express the heart felt sorrow and sadness which 
the announcement of cousin Fred's, death has occasioned. I 
sympathise with you most sincerely and tenderly. Another of us 
has gone, and if it must be so, there is to my mind the melancholy 
satisfaction of knowing that he fell, as I think he Avould have wished, 
amid the rattle of his ' carbines ' and the roar of battle, while nobly 
and gallantly contending against the foes of his country. To you 
I fear there is very little satisfaction in this, but to us who 
hold our lives by the slightest thread, if it is our fate to die, let it 
be, as was Fred's, sword in hand. I assure you, that during the 
coming campaign, I shall not forget the one who has just gone from 
us, but that his memory will, in battle, make my nerves steadier 
and my arm stronger, and, should chance offer, he shall be avenged 
most fully and fearfully. 

With a heart full of sympathy and condolence for you and my 
dear cousins, to whom the loss of their brother must be a terrible 
blow, I bid you farewell, and subscribe myself 

Your affectionate nephew, 

F. W. TREMAIN. 

The author of this lett^, a son of William Tremain, of 
Lanesboro, Pennsylvania, was promoted, subsequent to its date, 
to the Majority of the 89th New York. Attached to the 24th 
corps, it became his duty to lead his regiment at a charge made 
near Petersburgh, pursuant to General Grant's order for an attack 
along the whole line, April 2d, 1865, when he was shot in the head 
and killed instantly. He was a noble and gallant officer, and died 
at the early age of twenty-one. 

Four cousins, differing but little in age, entered the service at 
about the same time, all bright and promising young men, prompted 
by the highest sentiments of patriotism and duty. Of these, three 
have lost their lives in the service of their country. Their names 
are: Lieutenant Walter Tremain, Lieutenant-Colonel Fred- 
erick L. Tremain, and Major Frank Tremain. 

Major H. E. Tremain, brother of Walter, and son of Edwin 
Tremain, of New York city, having passed through numerous bat- 
tles, and perils innumerable, after being taken prisoner at the second 



battle of Bull Run, and confined in Libby prison for a few weeks, 
was exchanged, and participated in all the recent battles under 
Sheridan. His fate has been for many days involved in doubt, 
but a letter just received by his father, written by him at Burkes- 
ville, conveys the gratifying intelligence that he is alive and 
unharmed. 



735 Broadway, Albany, N. Y. ) 

February 10, 1865. \ 
Hon. L. Tremain : 

My Dear Sir : With much surprise, and with feelings of deep 
regret, I learned of the death of your son. To me he was as a 
brother, and I shall feel his loss sadly. 

Our acquaintance commenced in July, 1862, and during our 
long companionship on the staff of the lamented Colonel Morris, 
we were constantly together, and I found Fred a true friend and 
gentleman — generous, honorable and brave. 

You and your family have my warmest sympathy in this your 
affliction, and while our hearts bleed at his loss, let us look above 
for that consolation which "the world cannot give," remembering 
that he cheerfully gave up his life for his country — a noble sacrifice 
on the altar of liberty. 

In view of our warm friendship, and our close military connec- 
tions, allow me to offer my services in any way I can lessen your 
sad burdens, and honor his memory in this your hour of deep 
sorrow. 

I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

GEO. H. TREADWELL, 
Late Captain 7th N. Y. Vol. Artillery. 



1st Brigade, 2d Div. Cavalry, 
February 9, 1865. 

My Dear Sir : I little thought, when I last saw your son, that I 
should so soon be called upon to s^'mpathize with you in your sore 
bereavement, and to lament with you the sad and sudden termina- 
tion of his brilliant career. 



"We served together on General Davies' staff for eight months, 
and were thrown together in especial intimacy during the raid to 
Richmond and the first week of the battles of the Wilderness. It 
was then that I learned to admire as well as love him. His per- 
sonal character was truly noble, manly and honorable ; and as a 
soldier his gallantry and dash were especially conspicuous. He 
f-eemed, indeed, not to know what fear was, and carried his bravery 
almost to the point of recklessness. 

Every one esteemed him, as indeed they could not help doing, 
while his genial, generous temperament, his loyal and devout 
enthusiasm for the cause, won the admiration of all who watched 
his behavior. 

His delight in the active duties of his profession was rare and 
ardent, amounting often to an absolute enthusiasm. As I write 
I well remember, in illustration of this, his just indignation, and 
almost grief, at the demoralization observed among a pack train, 
at what might have been a critical moment, when our rear was 
attacked on the 9th of May. 

No officer in the army had a future of more promise than he, or 
anticipated it with more glowing hopefulness. Young as he was, 
he had already won for himself a reputation which any soldier 
might envy, and which will be very slow to perish. 

Of my personal attachment to him I dare not suffer myself to 
speak, nor is this the place to do so. It will live in my mind forever, 
associated not only with the profession so dear to us both, but with 
all that is brave and beautiful. 

The loss, too, which you have sustained I feel that I can but 
imperfectly estimate. Yet knowing what he was to his friends, I 
can appreciate, in some slight degree, what it must have been to 
lose so noble, so gifted, and so loving a son. 

It is your high privilege, however, in thinking of the end of his 

young life — the life he risked so often and yielded up so heroically 

— to know that the country so dear to you and to him, he counted 

abundantly worthy the costly sacrifice he made. 

I am, my dear sir, very truly yours, 

JAMES NEILSON POTTER, 
Hon. Lyman Tremain. Capt. and C. S. A^ols. 



LINES 
On the Death of Lieut. -Colonel Frederick L. Tremain. 



BY ALFRED B. STREET. 



Song for the young and bravo ! 
A pean for his bright though brief career ! 

But a low dirge above his warrior grave, 
The sudden closing to his opening year. 
Grief twines with glory. While his morn was red 
His Alma Mater's bowers all greenly spread 
Joy in his heart, fair fortune at his side, 
Home with its joys and friends that loved with pride, 
He turned from all to stem the battle-tide 
For his loved land, and for that land he died. 
Amid the roaring rain of musketry, 

And thunder-shock of volleys, the keen play 
Of bayonet-lightning, his slight form we see 

Full in the front, and where death's awful way 
Was wildest ! Woe that he should perish there 

In his fresh strenglh while sweeping upward road 
With his good sword, to where Fame, bright and rare 
For one so young, stood holding higii in air 

The laurel wreath. In strife how fiercely glowed 
His heart ! in rest how full of love and mirth .' 
Blue shone the sky, and flowery smiled the earth. 

For toward all human kind his heart in gladness flowed. 

The saddle was his throne, and he a king 

When the fierce squadron dashed in thundering might 
A cataract of swords and shots — a wing 

Of rushing Havoc — a quick cleaving flight 
Of deadly levin ! Lo, a glorious raid ! 

And the galloping steeds and the rush and the clang 
Of the ride over mountain, through forest and glade 

And the keen thrilling peals of the trumpet I How sprang 
The hamlet in terror while on came the burst 
Of the troopers and ehooring and flame told the worst. 



86 



MEMOIR. 



As they swept up the harvest and dashed down the wall 

And, laden with spoil, skimmed away one and all. 

While the night rang with clash and deep thunder of bound 

And flushed wide with torch-flame, and day heard the sound 

From field and from village of wailing and wrath 

And the foe bought in vain to block Sheridan's path. 

And mid them our eager young hero ! no toil 

Too great for his striving ; no battle -turmoil 

Too fierce for his daring ; no duty undone 

Till the goal of the striving and daring was won. 

Oh, long lament for him, the youthful dead ! 

The bravest of the brave ! most kind and true ! 
The blossom scarce to perfect life had spread 

The sun had scarcely climbed the morning blue. 
And yet so firm he looked at coming death 
"With eye so dauntless, such untrembling breath 
It seemed a mark of scorn. The bullet sped, 
And hours rolled onward, while with creeping tread, 
Tlie shadowy foe approached ; and when the dart 
Was reared to reach his young, warm, generous heart, 
With tenderest love of friends upon his lips 
He entered, undismayed, life's dread and dark eclipse. 

Song for the young and brave ! 
Long as the land shall live he died to save 
Shall Honor cast fresh wreaths upon his grave. 
Not lost his bright career; it shines a light 
To kindle other hearts with patriot might. 
And when strife calls again, a beacon to the fight. 



And not alone home's fractured altar shows 
A shrouded radiance, a great nation knows 
Her darkened orbs, and keeps them in her heart 
And when the frowning clouds of War depart 
Her grateful love will kindle them anew 
And constellate their rays forever in her view. 






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